Velankanni Church
:
Velankanni is a popular pilgrim center, especially
renowned for the Church of Mother Mary. As a great number of pilgrims turn up
here, like Lourdes in France, Velankanni is nicknamed as the Lourdes of the
East. The church reflects a gothic style of architecture, with an extended two
floored basilica that bears the statue of Jesus Christ.
Church Museum :
Situated opposite to the Basilica, the museum has varied
exhibits of historical importance. Various biblical incidents are inscribed on
both sidewalls. Also, the valuable offerings made by the devotees are displayed
here.
The Old Church :
The enclosed water tank at the Velankanni shrine has a
chapel nearby. It is believed that Our Lady of Health appeared here, to a
shepherd boy, around the 16th century. The Holy Path to the Tank, priests
residence, station of the cross, station of the rosary, and the mega mahal (for
devotees to stay) are the other major attractions near the church.
Velankanni beach :
The beach at Velankanni is an enjoyable place where you can
shop for a number of things including handloom fabrics handicrafts.
