Historic Churches Adorned for Christmas Celebrations

Visakhapatnam: As the season of Happy Christmas has set in, the port city's centuries-old churches are being transformed with festive decorations.

Special attention is on seven magnificent houses of worship that have existed for over 150 years and stand as testaments to the region's rich colonial and religious heritage.

Known primarily as the City of Destiny for its pristine beaches and distinctive local cuisine, Visakhapatnam harbours architectural treasures that tell the story of its diverse religious past.

The oldest among them, the St Ann's Cathedral, dates back to 1770, when it surfaced as the city's first Catholic church.

The church is believed to have been set up within the home of a Portuguese merchant by the Theatine fathers. The holy place soon evolved into a convent for the next 40 years. Between 1920 and 1935, it served as a boarding home for boys, and was then shifted to St Anthony’s in 1939.

The St John's Church, near the old post office, holds the distinction of being the first church built by the East India Company using its own funds.

Designed under the supervision of renowned engineer Arthur Cotton, the church features precious teak wood imported from Burma and glass paintings from Europe. Its ancient pipe organ still remains functional, providing music for up to 250 worshippers.

The London Mission Memorial Church, constructed in 1836, draws both Christian and non-Christian devotees, who come to pray before its sacred Cross. With impressive interiors spanning 50 by 40 feet, the church accommodates approximately 300 people.

Notably, the St Peter's Church carries a unique heritage. It is believed to have been built by the Dutch, but was reconstructed by the British between 1859 and 1864. While modest in its exterior appearance, the church's interior dazzles visitors with magnificent stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.

The 180-year-old St. Paul's Church, with its pristine white overarching structure adjacent to the Waltair Club and near the governor's residence, seamlessly blends historical architecture with the city's modern landscape.

Perched atop a hill, the Ross Hill Shrine, also known as Visakhapuri Mary Matha, was built in 1864 as a residence for British judge Monsieur Ross before its conversion to a chapel in 1867. The white structure offers panoramic views of the city and port area, making it a major tourist attraction.