About St. Francis Church

Oldest European Church in India

St. Francis CSI Church, nestled in Fort Kochi—also known as Fort Cochin—was established in 1503. It stands as the oldest European church in India, bearing great historical significance for its silent witness to the European colonial struggles in the region. Initially constructed from timber, the building was later reconstructed using stone masonry. A restoration in 1779 was undertaken by the Protestant Dutch; it was subsequently converted into an Anglican church by the British in 1795 and today falls under the jurisdiction of the Church of South India.

He was initially buried within this church. However, his remains were transported to Lisbon after fourteen years; his tombstone still remains at the site.

In April 1923, the church was officially designated as a protected monument under the Protected Monuments Act of 1904. It's managed by the Archaeological Survey of India while being owned by the North Kerala diocese of the Church of South India. The church hosts services on Sundays & commemorative days but remains closed to visitors during service times (8:00 am to 11:30 am on Sundays). On weekdays, it opens for visitors from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. While still photography is permitted inside, video cameras are not.

This storied edifice not only serves as a place of worship but also as a custodian of history, remaining a pivotal part of India's rich cultural tapestry.

Visiting Information

Timing: Monday - Saturday: 7 AM to 6:30 PM & Sunday: 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
The use of video cameras is restricted inside the church, but still photography is allowed.
Best Time to Visit: November – February

Why Special?

St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi is the first European church established in India.

St. Francis Church is also notable for being the original burial site of the renowned explorer Vasco da Gama.

How to Reach Francis Church?

By Air - Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi, located 39.6 km away.

By Rail - Ernakulam Junction Railway Station is the nearest railway station to St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi, located 12.4 km away.

By Bus - St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi is conveniently accessible by road. Visitors can reach the church by private vehicles, bus, or auto-rickshaw. Ernakulam Bus Station is the nearest bus station to St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi, located 14 km away.