St. Francis Church is one of the oldest European-built churches in India, located in Fort Kochi, Kerala. It is a significant landmark in the city’s history and is a popular tourist destination.

The church was first built in 1503 by the Portuguese, making it the oldest European church in India. It was later rebuilt in 1779 by the Dutch after the Portuguese had been defeated by them. The church is built in a blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architectural styles.

The church is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi and is famous for being the burial place of the famous explorer Vasco da Gama. The church originally had da Gama’s tomb, but his remains were later taken back to Portugal. However, his tombstone is still present in the church, and visitors can see it.

The church has a beautiful interior and is adorned with beautiful paintings, sculptures, and stained glass windows. The altar of the church is made of wood and is considered to be one of the most beautiful in India.

St. Francis Church is a popular pilgrimage site for Christians and is visited by devotees from all over the state. The church also attracts tourists interested in the city’s colonial history and architecture.

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