Bangalore, also known as Bengaluru, is the capital city of Karnataka and St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore one of the most popular destinations in India. The city is known for its pleasant climate, cosmopolitan culture, and vibrant nightlife. St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore is famous church in Bangalore and Visit during Bangalore Local sightseeing. But apart from these modern attractions, Bangalore also has a rich history and heritage that can be explored through its monuments and landmarks. One of the most prominent and impressive among them is the St. Mary’s Basilica.
Location of St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore
The St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore is located in the Shivajinagar area of the city, near the Russell Market. It is easily accessible by public transport, such as buses, metro, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. The nearest metro station is MG Road, which is about 2 km away from the basilica. The basilica is also close to other tourist attractions, such as Commercial Street, Brigade Road, and Cubbon Park.
Timing/Entry Fees St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore
The basilica is open to visitors from 6 am to 9 pm on all days of the week. There is no entry fee for visiting the basilica. However, donations are welcome and can be made at the donation boxes inside the basilica. The basilica also offers mass services in various languages, such as English, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi.
How to Reach St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore
The basilica can be reached by various modes of transport from different parts of the city. Here are some of the options:
- By Bus: There are several buses that ply to and from the basilica from various bus stops in the city. Some of the bus numbers are 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G, 2H, and 2J.
- By Metro: The nearest metro station to the basilica is MG Road, which is on the Purple Line of the Namma Metro. From there, one can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach the basilica.
- By Auto-Rickshaw/Taxi: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available in the city and can be hired to reach the basilica. The fare may vary depending on the distance and traffic conditions.
- By Car: The basilica has a parking facility for visitors who come by their own vehicles. The parking fee is Rs. 20 for two-wheelers and Rs. 40 for four-wheelers.
Things to Do/Must See St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore
St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore is a magnificent structure that showcases the splendor and elegance of Gothic architecture. It is one of the oldest churches in Bangalore and one of the only four minor basilicas in India. The basilica was built in 1882 by Rev. L.E. Kleiner, a French missionary priest who dedicated it to Our Lady of Good Health (also known as Our Lady of Vailankanni). The basilica has several features and attractions that make it a must-visit place for anyone who wants to experience the sacred and splendid monument.
Some of the things to do and must see in the St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore are:
- Admire the architecture and design of the basilica, which has a towering spire that rises to a height of 160 feet. The facade of the basilica has three arches with stained glass windows that depict scenes from the life of Mary. The interior of the basilica has a high ceiling with wooden beams and chandeliers, a marble altar with a statue of Mary holding Jesus in her arms, and a large organ with 1,000 pipes.
- Explore the history and significance of the basilica through its various relics and paintings that are displayed inside. The basilica has a relic of St. Thomas (one of Jesus’ apostles), a relic of St. Francis Xavier (a famous missionary saint), a painting of St. Ignatius Loyola (the founder of Jesuits), and a painting of St. Teresa of Avila (a mystic saint).
- Visit the shrine of Our Lady of Good Health (also known as Our Lady of Vailankanni), which is located behind the main altar. The shrine has a statue of Mary holding Jesus in her arms,.
Significance of St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore
The basilica is not only a historical and architectural marvel, but also a spiritual and cultural hub of the city. The basilica hosts various events and functions throughout the year, such as masses, novenas, processions, and festivals. The most famous and grand among them is the St. Mary’s Feast, which is celebrated every year in September. The feast attracts thousands of devotees and pilgrims from different parts of the country and the world, who come to seek the blessings of Our Lady of Good Health. The feast culminates with a spectacular chariot procession that carries the statue of Mary through the streets of Bangalore.
FAQ’s
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the basilica:
- Q: How old is St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore?
- A: The basilica was built in 1882, but its history dates back to 1648, when a small chapel was erected on the same site by Tamil Christian migrants from Gingee.
- Q: Why is the basilica dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health?
- A: The basilica is dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health because she is believed to have miraculous healing powers and to grant favors to those who pray to her. The devotion to Our Lady of Good Health originated in Vailankanni, a coastal town in Tamil Nadu, where Mary is said to have appeared to three people in the 16th and 17th centuries.
- Q: What are the timings of the mass services in St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore?
- A: The basilica offers mass services in various languages at different times of the day. Here is the schedule:
- English: 6 am, 7 am, 8 am, 9 am, 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm, and 6 pm
- Kannada: 7:30 am and 5:30 pm
- Tamil: 8:30 am and 6:30 pm
- Malayalam: 9:30 am
- Hindi: 10:30 am
Conclusion
The St. Mary Basilica-Bangalore is a must-visit attraction for anyone who wants to experience the sacred and splendid monument in Bangalore. The basilica offers a glimpse into the history and heritage of Christianity in India, as well as the beauty and diversity of Gothic architecture. The basilica is a place where faith meets art, where tradition meets innovation, and where devotion meets celebration. The basilica is a place where you can discover the past, enjoy the present, and imagine the future.🙏
