St Francis Xavier Cathedral

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The cathedral was raised to the status of a basilica minor by Pope John Paul II in 2010.

2. 2

   The original church on this site was a smaller building constructed in the mid-19th century to serve the British military personnel.

3. 3

   The current cathedral structure was consecrated in 1932 to replace the older, smaller building.

4. 4

   The interior is renowned for its large, intricately designed stained glass windows depicting various religious scenes.

5. 5

   The cathedral is the primary venue for major liturgical events held by the Archbishop of Bangalore.

Overview

St Francis Xavier's Cathedral serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Bangalore and is the mother church of the Archdiocese. Originally established in 1851, the current structure is a 20th-century landmark featuring distinctive twin spires and a cruciform floor plan. The cathedral is noted for its grand central nave and expansive high ceilings. It stands as a significant center for Catholic life in the Cleveland Town area of Bengaluru. The building was elevated to a cathedral status in 1940 upon the creation of the Bangalore Diocese. Its architecture incorporates elements of neo-Gothic design adapted to a larger, more modern scale.

Insider tips

• Visit during the early morning on weekdays to experience the space without large crowds.

• Maintain absolute silence when entering, as the cathedral remains an active place of worship throughout the day.

• Explore the surrounding Cleveland Town area to see historic colonial-era architecture.