St. Antony's Syro Malabar Forane Church, Ollur

About St. Antony's Syro Malabar Forane Church, Ollur

St. Antony's Syro Malabar Forane Church in Ollur, Thrissur, Kerala is a significant shrine dedicated to St. Anthony and housing the famous Shrine of St. Raphael the Archangel, also known as Chinna Roma. Founded in 1718, it is one of the oldest churches built in 18th-century Kerala. The church serves as a focal point for pilgrims and the Syro-Malabar Christian community. It features traditional architectural styles, vibrant liturgical practices, and community events reflecting the heritage of the Syro-Malabar Church. A unique feature is the presence of more than 5,000 angel images sculpted in various media including fresco, mural, wood, plaster, stone, metal, and ivory. The church hosts the annual Feast of Saint Raphael (MalakhayudePerunnal), which draws thousands of pilgrims and begins on October 15 with the hoisting of a ceremonial flag. This festival is listed among Kerala's state attractions by Kerala Tourism.