St. Joseph's Latin Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral Palayam - Catholic cathedral in Thiruvananthapuram - Thiruvananthapuram, India

This cathedral is also known as Palayam Palli, and it is located at Palayam. The church is 137-year-old heritage one. The initial church was built in 1873. The church was blessed by Rev.Eldaphonese OCD , Bishop of Quilon and the Parish Priest, Rev.Fr.Emygdius OCD. St. Joseph's Metropolitan Cathedral is a grand Gothic monument that began as a small parish church in 1873 to serve the local Christian families of Palayam, as it does even today. Dedicated to Saint Joseph, the original structure underwent major changes between 1912 to 1927 with the extension of its structure in the form of a cross and the addition of a Gothic style bell tower. The church is considered to be one of the imposing religious landmarks of the city and is under the aegis of Metropolitan Archdiocese of Trivandrum that carried out most of the extensive renovations beginning from 2008. Interestingly, during these renovations, upon the recommendation of Archaeological Department of Kerala, the color of the walls were changed to white from brick red, which gave a false impression that the church was made of bricks. Open on all days, the church has daily prayer service as well as scheduled weekly religious events. Some extension work has done in 1912. Gothic style facade and the bell-tower were placed during the second stage of extension in 1937 . Three bells brought from Belgium were arranged in the bell tower, named Joseph, Xavier, and Aloysius. The Patron of the Church- St. Joseph, the Apostle of India- St. Francis Xavier, the pioneer Missionary-Bishop of Quilon- Bishop Aloysius Maria Benziger were honoured and the bells were installed on behalf of them. On the first July of 1937, a new diocese of Thiruvananthapuram was formed. The St. Joseph's Church then became the part of the newly formed diocese. In 2004, the cathedral was named as St. Joseph's Metropolitan Cathedral as the diocese was raised to a metropolitan archdiocese. Chapel, church, basilica, and cathedral are the four different classes of Christian worship centres. The cathedral is a larger place of worship than a church. The cathedral is under the control of bishop. St. Joseph's Metropolitan Cathedral is the major Christen worship centre in Trivandrum. Because of its Architecture style causes the number of tourists is attracted to here. Architecturally, the church is a magnificent example of Gothic style. Gothic builds are recognized by its arches, flying buttresses, stained glass window, and ribbed vaults. Pointed arch is another characteristic of the gothic structure, it would give amazing strength and stability to the structures. The facade is constructed in Gothic style. Gothic Architecture style began in France, where architects were inspired by the Romanesque Architecture style. The attractive feature of the gothic structure is that it brings enough sunlight into the building. The grandeur of its notable features, such as spires, domes, or stained glass leaves visitors in awe and showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of its time.

This cathedral is vast and beautiful in palayam and beauty more greater when night lighting on and very peaceful place you feel you're sitting on the meditation hall

Very nice place and very special feel to see at nights.... major and must watch monuments in Royal TVM

A quiet church. Couldn't know the mass timings online. So visited, noted and now sharing for all. Mass Timings Sundays: 5.45am , 7.00am , 8.45am , 10.00am 3.30pm(Tamil), 5.00pm Weekdays: 6.00am, 5.30pm

I recently had the pleasure of visiting St. Joseph's Latin Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral in my hometown. This beautiful church is a sight to behold. The architecture is stunning, with its ornate facade and intricate stone carvings. Inside, the church is just as impressive. The stained glass windows add a beautiful touch of color and the high ceilings make it feel grand and spacious. The church also offers a great atmosphere for worship, with its peaceful and calming atmosphere. I'd highly recommend a visit to this church if you're ever in the area.

A beautiful church with a rich history. St Joseph's Latin Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral stands as a towering monument of faith and hope in the centre of Trivandrum city. The architecture and the way it is built deserve hige respect. The atmosphere and calmness inside the church is so soothing and serene, perfect for praying and talking to god. A must visit place in Trivandrum.

A masterpiece in Gothic and Anglican architecture Centre of attraction in trivandrum, a major spot must visited An old roman and latin catholic cathedral with huge ornamental design A must visit to see the marvel

Known as Palayam Palli...with architectural Beauty...One among to see in Trivandrum... Established in 1873...attracts peoples in its Divinity atmosphere to pray ...