STORIES by HEARITAGE

Kerala is home to many historic churches, yet few stir the soul the way the Arthunkal Basilica does. Dedicated to St. Andrew the Apostle, this magnificent shrine on the shores of Alappuzha has grown into one of South India’s greatest pilgrimage centres. But the church’s fame reaches far beyond its patron saint. What draws millions here every year is the deep devotion to St. Sebastian, the Roman martyr whose life and sacrifice continue to inspire believers across generations. Arthunkal is also a rare symbol of Kerala’s secular spirit. 

In 2010, the Vatican raised the church to the status of a Minor Basilica in 2010, acknowledging its spiritual significance far beyond regional borders. Today, pilgrims from all religions step into this grand structure seeking peace, healing, and blessings. The power of the place is such that even a brief visit leaves one with a sense of calm, as if the sands of Arthunkal and the breeze from the Arabian Sea carry centuries of whispered prayers. While the roots of the church lie in the 16th-century missionary work of the Jesuits, its heart beats strongest during the Feast of St. Sebastian, a vibrant celebration of faith, sacrifice, and gratitude. 

The story of Arthurungal’s spiritual legacy begins in the 16th century, when Jesuit missionaries reached the Kerala coast and quietly preached the teachings of Christ. They held prayers in humble homes, as building formal churches was still restricted. Eventually, Portuguese missionaries erected a simple chapel with a cross nothing elaborate, but enough to kindle a growing community of believers. Everything changed with the arrival of Fr. Fenicio, fondly called Arthunkal Velichen or Veluthachan, who became synonymous with the church’s identity. His compassion, wisdom, and deep service earned him the love of the people, and under his guidance, the church expanded with the support of Kochi Raja Veera Kerala Varma. Initially built in wood, the structure was later rebuilt in stone. After Fr. Fenicio’s death, the church was again reconstructed, this time facing the shimmering Arabian Sea, a symbolic gesture of openness to the world. But the turning point came in 1647, with the arrival of a life-size statue of St. Sebastian from Milan. Portrayed with arrows piercing his body, just as he was martyred, the statue resonated profoundly with devotees. Stories of miraculous healings soon spread, and Arthunkal became a sanctuary for the ill, the wounded, and the grateful. It is believed that those who survived illness or danger return here to thank the saint, who himself bore the pain of countless arrows for his belief in Christ. The sight of devotees performing the ancient offerings of Ambunercha (bow and arrow) and Urulunercha (crawling to the shrine) captures the intensity of human devotion like few other pilgrimages.

For decades, the church has been a spiritual home not just for Christians, but for Hindu devotees as well. It is a tradition that beautifully captures Kerala’s culture of shared worship and harmony. The annual feast, Arthunkal Perunnal is a grand, two-week celebration that transforms the church grounds into a vibrant ocean of faith. The most breathtaking moment is the procession where the statue of St. Sebastian is taken to the seashore and returned in a ceremonial march. As the saint steps into the open sky, eagles circle above, echoing legends of heavenly guardianship, an image that pilgrims cherish for a lifetime.

The Basilica that pilgrims admire today is a result of centuries of rebuilding and refinement: Construction of the iconic granite façade and bell tower in 1870, it tooknearly 60 years  for completion of the present granite structure & in 2017  the latest renovation including a majestic teakwood altar was finished. The altar, one of Kerala’s largest, glows with the richness of fine craftsmanship, while the Last Supper depiction at its center captivates every visitor with its intricate detailing. Designed to ensure that every devotee finds a seat, the interior radiates calmness, drawing all who enter into a serene, contemplative silence. In the courtyard lies the Rosary Park, where life-size sculptures depict pivotal miracles and episodes from Christ’s life, making it a contemplative space for pilgrims and tourists alike.

A visit to Arthunkal is not just a stop on a tourist itinerary; it is an experience of Kerala’s spiritual soul. Come during the festival and feel the throb of the crowd and the solemnity of the procession. Come on a quiet weekday and let the peaceful silence of the church envelop you. Either way, Arthunkal Basilica leaves you with a gentle reminder of faith, in its purest form, is for everyone