St. Mary's Church, Champakulam, Alappuzha

Founded in AD 427 the St. Mary's Church, Champakulam in the district of Alappuzha is located along the idyllic banks of the backwater canals. The community around the church originated from the Niranom church founded by the apostle St. Thomas himself. The church was built following the seven first generation churches founded by the apostle.Back then it was famous as the Kaloorkaddu church. 

On one of my travels there I managed to take a few clicks which I post below to share the experience with you.

The grotto of the immaculate conception that adorns the entrance to the church grounds.

The Tower of the Saints at the entrance to the church.

A large boat adorns the grounds. It is customary to pour the 'sambar' (a type of curry) prepared for the church festival into it before it is distributed amongst the people.
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Large doors made in the old traditional style adorn the
large entrance.

A woodwork depicting the last supper of Christ elegantly decorates the side wall of the main entrance.

A closer view of the main doors.

A candle rack is placed to the left of the entrance. It is a beautiful sight during the festivals especially during the rituals  that take place during the night.

                                      

My first view of the magnificent altar. Its elegantly furnished in the traditional style. 

 A closer view of the altar shows the woven ceiling.

The crucifix to the left of the altar. In the backdrop one can see the typical architectural style that was followed in nearly all the Catholic churches that were built in Kerala around the time. 

The intricately painted ceiling. Images of angels, saints & the virgin along with floral patterns adorn the walls in vivid colors.

The right side of the altar is similarly designed. the paintings have stood the test of time though this particular section is starting to show signs of aging.

                 

The murals on the ceiling are truly breath taking. It creates the impression of having truly entered the heavens. To the left is the central mural that depicts 'the Crowning of Mother Mary' & to the right is another painting of the lady being worshiped.

The well crafted symbolic designs on  the altar table.

The stone baptism basin. It has an embossed work that depicts the baptism of Jesus.

Even the pillars are have intricate floral paintings that span the length of the walls. 

This was the special pulpit from where the Bishop once addressed the masses. this
too like the rest of the things in the church is painted in bright colors.

A closer view of the pulpit stem. It resembles a flower with its pedicel originating
from a dragon's mouth.

A gilded basin for the holy water lines the walls next to each entrance.

A raised balcony can be found at the back. It was used in the olden days to accommodate
the masses.

A captivating view of the church interiors.

The view of the church from the back yard.

The church is on the banks of the backwater canals. A view from one of the church exits.

The entire landscape and the magnificent church is sure to leave you hungry for more of the beautiful backwaters. :)

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