Infant Jesus Cathedral

The Infant Jesus Cathedral is a beautiful church located at Thangasseri in the city of Kollam in Kerala, previously known as the Bom Jesu Church. It was established by the Portuguese in 1614 and is dedicated to Saint Francis Xavier. The church attracts a large number of visitors on all days of the week, and it is especially busy on Sundays when mass takes place.

The Infant Jesus Cathedral has a rich history dating back to 1503 when Tangasseri came under Portuguese control. Led by Afonso de Albuquerque, the Portuguese fortified the city by building Fortaleza da São Tomé (St. Thomas Fort). During his visits in 1544 and 1549, Saint Francis Xavier established several religious and educational institutions in Tangasseri, including a church, a college (São Salvador College), a printing press (São Salvador Seminary Press), and a religious study center. In 1614, the Portuguese moved the Infant Jesus church to its current location.

The cathedral features a spacious interior, a large compound, and mesmerizing stained-glass windows that showcase the life of Jesus, including a beautiful depiction of him sitting in the Lotus position and meditating. The peaceful atmosphere of the church, combined with its stunning beauty, makes a visit to the Infant Jesus Cathedral truly unforgettable.