A 16th century Portuguese church built on a rocky hillock where St. Thomas the Apostle is believed to have taken refuge. The site features a small cave with a natural spring and a handprint attributed to the saint.
6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Free
Highlights
- Built by the Portuguese in 1551 on a small rocky hillock (Little Mount) in the Saidapet area
- According to tradition, St. Thomas hid in a cave on this hillock to escape persecution before his martyrdom on nearby St. Thomas Mount
- A small natural cave beneath the church contains a spring, and a handprint on the rock is venerated as that of St. Thomas
- The church was rebuilt and expanded in the 18th and 19th centuries, retaining its Portuguese-era core
- A separate modern church, Our Lady of Health, stands adjacent to the historic chapel and serves a large parish
- Located near the Little Mount Metro station on the Chennai Metro Green Line, making it easily accessible
- Pilgrimage site visited alongside St. Thomas Mount and San Thome Cathedral on the Chennai "St. Thomas Trail"
Location
Explore Little Mount
Discover more about the Little Mount neighbourhood, including transport, healthcare, and other attractions.
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