History of Our Lady of Snows Shrine Basilica

The Our Lady of Snows Shrine Basilica is a Catholic pilgrimage center located in the town of Tuticorin (Thoothukudi) in Tamil Nadu, India. The history of the basilica dates back to the 16th century when the Portuguese arrived in Tuticorin and built a small chapel in honor of Our Lady of Snows, a popular Marian devotion in Europe.

In 1692, the chapel was expanded and renovated by the Dutch, who were the colonial rulers of Tuticorin at that time. The new structure was a beautiful Gothic-style church and became an important center for Christian worship in the region.

In the early 19th century, the church was once again renovated and expanded by the British, who added two new wings to the building. In 1907, the church was raised to the status of a minor basilica by Pope Pius X, and in 1953, it was declared a national shrine by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India.

The basilica is known for its exquisite architecture and magnificent stained glass windows that depict scenes from the life of Jesus and Mary. The shrine also houses a museum that showcases various objects related to the history and traditions of the church.

The annual festival of Our Lady of Snows is celebrated in August and attracts a large number of devotees from all over Tamil Nadu and beyond. The festival is marked by a grand procession and other religious ceremonies.

Today, the Our Lady of Snows Shrine Basilica stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Tuticorin and is an important pilgrimage center for Catholics in Tamil Nadu.