Champakulam Valia Palli, also known as Champakulam Kalloorkadu Marth Maryam Basilica, is an ancient and renowned Christian church located in Champakulam village in Alappuzha district, Kerala, India. It is one of the oldest Christian churches in India and holds significant historical and religious importance.
The church is dedicated to St. Mary, the mother of Jesus, and is considered one of the seven churches founded by St. Thomas the Apostle during his missionary journey to India in the 1st century AD. As a result, Champakulam Valia Palli is steeped in rich Christian heritage and has been a center of worship and pilgrimage for centuries.
The architecture of Champakulam Valia Palli exhibits a blend of traditional Kerala style and Christian motifs. The church’s gabled roof, wooden carvings, and intricate artwork reflect the local architectural elements typical of Kerala’s traditional places of worship.
One of the most notable events associated with the Champakulam Valia Palli is the annual feast of St. Mary celebrated in July. This feast, known as the Champakulam Moolam Vallamkali, is a boat race held on the nearby Pamba River. The boat race attracts thousands of spectators and participants from various parts of Kerala, making it a significant cultural and festive occasion in the region.
As a place of historical and religious importance, Champakulam Valia Palli continues to attract visitors, pilgrims, and tourists interested in exploring Kerala’s cultural and religious heritage.