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Internationally famous as the oldest Anglican Church in Asia, St. Mary's Church in Chennai will impress you with its splendid architecture, serene and holy ambience. St. Mary's Church in Chennai was sanctified in 1679 AD and till date, it continues to offer solace, faith and hope to millions of visitors. Set in the historical site of Fort St. George in Chennai in India, it unravels a treasure of history, myths and tales. St. Mary's Church in Chennai derives its name from its origin in the Annunciation day of the Virgin Mary when the divine oracle of the birth of Jesus, is believed to have been made to Mother Mary. The Archaeological Survey Of India looks after the protection of this site. History says this church initially served as a Church of the first congregation till it was transformed into a Garrison Church. Rev. Richard Portman, the first Chaplain of the Church, took charge on 28th October 1679. Later the French converted it into a military dormitory. St. Mary's Church initiated the entire program of charity in Chennai and relives the old era of the British Raj with British names engraved on the pillars.
Features of St. Mary's Church in Chennai
- St. Mary's Church in Chennai was built by William Dixon and designed by Edward Fowle.
- With an anti-bomb structure having a finishing coat of polished lime, St. Mary's Church in Chennai has the altar piece, a splendid painting of the last supper, a bible and silver plates.
- Later various changes and additions were made to the site including the Sanctuary, Steeple, Tower and the Vestry.
- St. Mary's Church in Chennai has the church top, which was added in 1795.
- You will be impressed by the interior of the church decked with the wooden work and glass arches.
- St. Mary's Church in Chennai also has tombstones, memorial tablets, earliest register of baptisms, marriages and burials in India.
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