St. Mary’s Basilica is a basilica located in the Archdiocese of Bangalore in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is the oldest church in Bangaloreand is the only church in the state that has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary’s Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts a number of devotees from in and around Bangalore.
About St. Mark’s Cathedral :
St. Marks Cathedral is situated on the busy M.G. Road of Bangalore. The foundation of this cathedral was laid down in the year 1808 and the construction work was completed in 1812. However, it was only in 1816 that St. Marks Cathedral got consecrated by the Bishop of Calcutta. The cathedral was first expanded in the year 1901 and then reconstructed in 1927. The architecture of St. Marks Cathedral is inspired, to quite an extent, by the 17th century St Paul’s Cathedral.
Built in the colonial style of architecture, it stands adorned with a semicircular chancel, having a huge, magnificent dome. The Roman arches embellishing the walls of the cathedral add to its splendor. Saint Mark’s Cathedral boasts of having one of the best-maintained external bells amongst all the churches in the Bangalore city of India. The exquisite woodwork as well as the intricate carving merges beautifully with its elegant ceilings and domes. Even the stained glasswork of the cathedral adds to its beauty.
History and Significance :
The magnificent seventeenth century English monument, the St Paul’s Cathedral is claimed to be the inspiration for St. Mark’s Church in Bangalore and with its beautiful dome and semi-circular chancel it isn’t hard to see why the comparisons came about. Construction on the church began in 1808 and it took nearly four years to complete. Sanctified by the Bishop of Calcutta in 1816, it underwent expansion and was rebuilt in 1927.
St Mark’s Church was named for St Mark who was one of the twelve apostles of Christ. It is believed that he was the first gospel writer. The church is over two centuries old and bicentennial celebrations were held in 2007-2008.
Architecture :
The basilica has been built in the Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and the tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947.
Attraction :
Tall Roman arches, lovely ceilings, intricate woodwork and elaborate carvings make St. Mark’s Church a thing of beauty. It has a very well maintained external bell and its amazing stained glass is a huge draw and tourists throng here to witness its beauty.
