St. Lucia's Cathedral
A magnificent Gothic cathedral, home to the Archbishop of Colombo, featuring stunning statues and intricate artistry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St. Lucia's Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Gothic cathedral, home to the Archbishop of Colombo, featuring stunning statues and intricate artistry.
"A beautiful historical church with impressive architecture and a serene atmosphere."
🧥 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this holy site. :pray:
📚 Browse the Bookshop
Find religious artifacts and souvenirs at the small bookshop on-site. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gothic Architecture
Admire the stunning Gothic design, reminiscent of St. Peter's Basilica, with intricate statues and stained glass.
Statue of St. Lucy
See the unique statue of St. Lucy holding her eyes, symbolizing her patronage against eye disorders.
The 'Anthony Thomas' Bell
Marvel at the largest of four bells, weighing 4300 pounds, with intricate engravings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Respectful Attire
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this holy site. :pray:
📚 Browse the Bookshop
Find religious artifacts and souvenirs at the small bookshop on-site. :books:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of ongoing services and other visitors when taking photos. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow Time for Restoration
Parts of the cathedral may be under renovation, so be patient. :construction:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this holy site. :pray:
📚 Browse the Bookshop
Find religious artifacts and souvenirs at the small bookshop on-site. :books:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of ongoing services and other visitors when taking photos. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow Time for Restoration
Parts of the cathedral may be under renovation, so be patient. :construction:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Lucia's Cathedral for its stunning Gothic architecture and significant religious artistry, particularly the statue of St. Lucy. While many appreciate the free entry and peaceful atmosphere, some note that ongoing renovations can impact the experience. The cathedral is considered a historically important landmark in Colombo.
"It's a beautiful church. I attended a wedding. It was done well. Being Hindu it was a whole new experience"
Mahinthan So (MAHI)
"The exterior of this Beautiful Cathedral is designed along the lines of St Peters Bascilica in Rome.
The church is currently undergoing extensive restoration and repair.
For those who are not familiar with St Lucy, she is the Patron Saint for those suffering from eye disorders.
There is a small bookshop within the church premises that sells religious artefacts."
Dr Reviews
"At a distance of 3 km from Colombo Fort Railway Station, St. Lucia's Cathedral is a Roman Catholic Church located Kotahena locality of Colombo. The cathedral is considered the oldest and largest parish cathedral in Sri Lanka and among the top places to visit in Colombo.
St. Lucia's Cathedral is dedicated to saint martyr St. Lucia who is considered to be the protector against all kinds of eye trouble. This is the seat of the Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Colombo. The cathedral was first built as a small chapel of wood in 1760 when Ceylon was under Dutch occupation. This small structure was later replaced by a more massive shrine made of brick and mortar in the year 1782. St. Lucia's Cathedral became the first church of Sri Lanka after it was detached from the jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Goa. A plan was made in 1872, to build a new cathedral which took roughly 30 years and was fully completed in the year 1902.
St Lucia's Cathedral is a massive structure built in the beautiful Gothic style of architecture. The facade of the church rests on massive ionic columns and it's adorned with seven statues. Silhouetted against the sky is the cross on the concrete lantern crowning the dome, the pinnacle of the cathedral. The interior consists of large statues of saints, beautiful wooden carvings and intricate glass stained windows. Rising above the main altar is a statue of Saint Lucy holding up her eyes on the palm of her hand. In front of the sanctuary, towards the left, one can see a dark-skinned statue of the Madonna referred to as 'Our Lady of Kotahena'.
The highlight of the building is the 4300-pound bell named Anthony Thomas. The bell has intricate engravings of elaborate floral wreaths and holy figures and symbols of Christianity, and it is the largest of the four bells shipped from Marseilles and christened at the cathedral in 1903. It also has a unique pipe organ donated to the cathedral in 1934. This massive structure can easily host around 5000 worshippers.
Timings: 5.30 AM - 12 PM & 2 PM - 7 PM
Mass Timings: 6 AM, 7 AM and 6 PM from Monday to Friday & 5.30 AM (English), 7 AM (English), 8 AM (Sinhala), 9.15 AM (Tamil), 6 PM (English) on Sunday
Entry: Free"
THE TRAVELER
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Lucia's Cathedral is located in Kotahena, approximately 3 km from Colombo Fort Railway Station. You can easily take a short taxi ride or a local bus to reach the cathedral. Public transportation is quite accessible once you know the routes.
Yes, the cathedral is well-connected by local bus routes, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to save money and experience local life.
If you're staying in Kotahena, the cathedral is likely within walking distance or a very short tuk-tuk ride, offering a convenient and quick journey.
Limited parking may be available, but it's advisable to check on arrival or consider using public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid any parking hassles.
Yes, ride-sharing apps are widely used in Colombo and can be a convenient way to get to the cathedral, especially if you're unfamiliar with the local bus routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to St. Lucia's Cathedral is free of charge, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
The cathedral is typically open from 5:30 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 7 PM. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific holiday hours or event closures.
Mass is held daily from Monday to Friday at 6 AM, 7 AM, and 6 PM. On Sundays, there are multiple masses in English, Sinhala, and Tamil at various times.
While you can attend services, it's best to be mindful of ongoing ceremonies. Attending a wedding can be a unique cultural experience, but always check if visitors are welcome.
Yes, as a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly. Please ensure your shoulders and knees are covered out of respect.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
The cathedral boasts impressive Gothic architecture, featuring large statues of saints, beautiful wooden carvings, intricate stained glass windows, and a dome crowned with a cross. The facade is supported by massive ionic columns.
The statue of St. Lucy, the patron saint for those suffering from eye disorders, is a notable feature. She is depicted holding her eyes on the palm of her hand.
The 'Anthony Thomas' bell is the largest of four bells, weighing 4300 pounds. It features intricate engravings of floral wreaths and Christian symbols and was christened in 1903.
Yes, there is a small bookshop within the cathedral premises where you can buy religious artifacts and souvenirs.
Yes, the cathedral has been undergoing extensive restoration and repair work. While this may affect the visual experience, it's a testament to its historical importance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful of worshippers and any ongoing services. Avoid using flash photography during mass or ceremonies.
The exterior architecture, especially the facade and dome, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the stained glass windows and the statue of St. Lucy are also popular subjects.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around religious sites. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful natural light for photography, especially for the exterior. Consider the angle of the sun to capture the best details.
While you might be able to capture some moments, it's crucial to be discreet and avoid disrupting the ceremony. It's often best to refrain from photography during solemn parts of a service.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the cathedral is an active place of worship, so encourage children to be respectful and quiet during their visit. The small bookshop might also offer interesting religious artifacts or books that could appeal to older children. Visiting during off-peak hours can help ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Attending a mass service, especially on a Sunday, offers an opportunity to experience the vibrant faith of the local community. The peaceful ambiance within the cathedral, even amidst ongoing renovations, can provide a space for reflection and prayer. The bookshop also offers resources for further spiritual exploration.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To get the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting. Be mindful of ongoing renovations, which might offer unique perspectives or require careful framing. Always be respectful of worshippers and avoid disruptive photography during services.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
The cathedral's construction was a lengthy process, with plans for a new structure beginning in 1872 and the entire project taking roughly 30 years to complete, finally finishing in 1902. This dedication to craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the massive ionic columns supporting the facade to the unique artistic elements within.
One of the most distinctive features is the 'Anthony Thomas' bell, the largest of four bells shipped from Marseilles. Weighing an impressive 4300 pounds, it is adorned with elaborate floral wreaths and Christian symbols, a testament to the historical and religious significance of the cathedral. The presence of a unique pipe organ, donated in 1934, further enhances its rich heritage.
The Patron Saint of Sight
The story of Saint Lucy is one of devotion and martyrdom, and her patronage extends to protecting against blindness and eye ailments. Visitors often find this particular statue to be a poignant and memorable part of their visit, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of the cathedral.
Beyond the central statue, the cathedral also houses a dark-skinned statue of the Madonna, known as 'Our Lady of Kotahena,' adding another layer of spiritual and cultural importance to the site. These religious icons contribute to the cathedral's role as a significant place of pilgrimage and devotion for many.
A Hub of Community and Worship
The cathedral holds regular mass timings throughout the week, with multiple services on Sundays in various languages including English, Sinhala, and Tamil. This inclusivity ensures that a diverse congregation can participate in worship.
Beyond its religious functions, the cathedral also offers a small bookshop selling religious artifacts, providing visitors with an opportunity to take home a memento or a piece of spiritual literature. The ongoing restoration efforts, while sometimes causing temporary disruptions, underscore the commitment to preserving this historic and vital place of worship for future generations.
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