Saturday, April 11, 2015

The Historical Kadamattom Church

Kadamattom Church (St. George Church, Kadamattom) is one of the oldest Church in Kerala and is believed to have established in the 9th Century AD. There is still some argument over the exact date of the Church's establishment, but historians believe that Kadamattom Church was built before AD 650. As per various sources, the Kadamattom church and the related property was a gift by the 'Karthas' of Kadamattom The Karthas were one of the most influential and prominent family present at Kadamattom.

It is believed that one of the children in the Kartha family was affected by a disease which could not be identified or cured by the local doctors. It was during this time that Mar Sabor (Mar Abo), a Middle Eastern monk from Eastern part of Syria reached Kadamattom. He was told about the child's disease and he was able to cure the disease. Upon seeing the child's disease cured, the Karthas were extremely happy and delighted and inturn the Karthas provided him with a good amount of land to construct the church.


Kadamattom St. George Church is situated between the towns of Kolencherry and Muvattupuzha. The Church is known for its architectural beauty and heritage. Inside the Church we can see a Persian Cross with ancient writings inscribed. There is also the tomb of  Mar Thoma IX (Pakalomattom Iype Kathanar) on the left side just outside the Madhbaha. The Church's door lock is another major attraction and is engineered with an amazing and unique wood lock mechanism.


Kadamattom feast is one of the major festivals that is held at the Church and is usually observed during the months of January and February. There are many legents associated with Kadamattom Church and the most important is that of the legendary priest Kadamattathu Kathanar. As per common belief he possessed supernatural powers and had performed many miraculous activities during his time.