Luz Church (Shrine of Our Lady of Light)
Believed to be the oldest church in Chennai, Luz Church (Shrine of Our Lady of Light) was built in 1516 by Franciscan missionaries from Portugal. The Gothic and baroque structure, besides being one of the oldest European monuments in India, is also a classic example of Portuguese colonial church architecture.
The Basics
While the church is undoubtedly impressive from the outside, with classical Portuguese styling including a white-washed facade and terra-cotta-hued ornamentation, the interiors are what really make this spot worth a visit. Here you'll find ornate gilding, beautiful fresco-painted ceilings, and an altar featuring silver and gold embellishments. Although it's not as popular as nearby San Thome cathedral, some Mylapore tours stop here, and visiting with a guide can help you gain a more in-depth understanding of the church's local and historical significance.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Luz Church is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in architecture or history.
Dress modestly, with shoulders and legs covered, out of respect for local customs.
If you attend Mass or another event, refrain from taking photos or wandering around.
How to Get There
Luz Church is situated in Mylapore, a culturally rich area known for its numerous churches and temples, including the famous Kapaleeswarar Temple, a 15-minute walk away. The church is about a 10-minute drive inland from Marina Beach, a 10-minute walk from the Thirumayilai commuter train station, or a 15-minute walk from Mundakakanniamman Koil station.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The church is open to visitors daily, but Mass is celebrated weekdays at 6:30am and 12pm, Saturday at 6:30pm, and Sunday at 6am, 7:30am, 9am, and 6pm, so visit outside of those times if you want to walk around or take pictures. Sunday evening Mass is held in English. Check ahead for special events during Holy Week, Easter, Christmas, Assumption, and other Catholic holidays.
The Legend Behind the Luz
According to local legend, in 1500 Franciscan Portuguese missionaries on their way to India became lost at sea and prayed to the Virgin Mary for guidance. The missionaries saw a light appear and followed it to land. When they reached the source of the light, all they found was an empty stretch of forest, where they then built a church in honor of Our Lady of Light.
- Things to do in Tamil Nadu
- Things to do in Pondicherry
- Things to do in Thanjavur
- Things to do in Bangalore
- Things to do in Jaffna
- Things to do in Madurai
- Things to do in Coimbatore
- Things to do in Anuradhapura
- Things to do in Tuticorin
- Things to do in Kochi
- Things to do in Goa
- Things to do in Northern Sri Lanka
- Things to do in Kerala
- Things to do in Sigiriya
- Things to do in Central Sri Lanka
- Mylapore
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple
- San Thome Cathedral
- Marina Beach
- Little Mount & St Thomas Mount (Chinnamalai & Parangi Malai)
- Valluvar Kottam
- Government Museum
- National Art Gallery
- Besant Nagar
- Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)
- Ashtalakshmi Temple
- Ripon Building
- Kalakshetra Foundation
- Fort St. George
- St. Mary’s Church