Kottayam Cheriapally — the Small Church of St. Mary's Orthodox Syrian Church — is one of the oldest and most historically significant Christian churches in India, built in 1579 CE in Kottayam, Kerala. Part of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, it is world-famous for its extraordinary ancient murals — vivid Biblical paintings adorning the walls and ceilings, created over 450 years ago in a unique fusion of Keralite and Portuguese artistic styles. The church also possesses two Syrian-cross monuments with Pahlavi (Middle Persian) inscriptions dating from the 7th century CE, making it one of the most historically rich Christian sites in Asia. The church is a centre of the Thomas Christian community of Kerala — descendants of converts of Saint Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have brought Christianity to Kerala in 52 CE. This immersive 360° virtual tour lets you explore the interior and its breathtaking murals from your browser, completely free.
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