13 Churches In West Bengal That Are Historically And Architecturally Rich

West Bengal is a bundle of divergent destinations where you can undergo vibrant experiences. From abundant fertile soil to thickly populated cities, from tea-wrapped foothills of Himalayan range to muggy mangroves of Bengal Bay, from rich culinary delicacies to magnificent structures, West Bengal hems within itself an array of remarkable stories. This lively state has from decades essenced within itself distinctive ethnicities, religions, cultures, people, and languages that have spread their fragrance to West Bengal’s lands, forests, hills, coastline, culture, and heritage.

West Bengal is one of the most culturally rich states of India and is home to some magnificent and astounding churches. The incredible and unusual architecture of these churches in West Bengal convey the chronicle of various eras that have been a strong part of the state. As the city of Calcutta was the capital of India during British rule, the churches have a strong reflection of British culture and art.

Churches In West Bengal

West Bengal is home to numerous churches that date back to the prehistoric period. These lovely and elegant structures not only serve as the holy place of Christians but also attract countless tourists with their architectural grandeur. Mentioned below is a list of churches in West Bengal that you must visit when planning an artistic getaway–

1. St. Paul’s Cathedral
2. Roman Catholic Church
3. Osmond Memorial Church
4. Church Of Lord Jesus
5. St. Thomas Church
6. St. John’s Church
7. St. James’ Church
8. Armenian Church Of Holy Nazareth
9. Bandel Church
10. Christ The King Church
11. Mar Thoma Syrian Church
12. Chandan Nagar Church
13. Roman Catholic Church

1. St. Paul’s Cathedral

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St. Paul’s Cathedral is an Anglican Cathedral that was sanctified in the year 1874 and is one of the most renowned churches of the West Bengal state. It was a part of the Anglican Communion in Kolkata, the construction of which was started by Bishop Daniel Wilson in 1839. The Gothic Revival style has been attracting tourists worldwide with its elegance and contemporary style.

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2. St. Andrews Church

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Built in 1815, St. Andrews Church is one of the most visited monuments in Kolkata city of West Bengal state. It is the only Scottish Church following the Presbyterian form of worship in India. Maria Imhoff, the Marquess of Hastings, administered the construction of the church and was made public in 1818. The gigantic spire of the church makes it the most dignified structure in West Bengal and has been declared as class I heritage building.

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3. Osmond Memorial Church

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The church was built in 1968 by Walter Osmond, a Methodist minister and is situated in Kolkata city of West Bengal. The church has been listed as one of the most famous and artistically constructed monuments of the state and was named ‘Osmond Memorial Church’ in honor of the founder who dedicated his life for the betterment of poor and needy.

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4. Church Of Lord Jesus

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This Catholic Church is located in Kolkata at the grand colonial structure Taltala. In ancient times the church followed the Presbyterian style of worship and was converted into a Parish of Archdiocese of Calcutta in 2005. The religious activities celebrated in the Church of Lord Jesus are in Bengali.

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5. St. Thomas Church

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It is one of the most renowned Roman Catholic Church of the state of West Bengal. The colonial design of the church, gorgeous altar windows and the massive Gothic tower has been the talk of the town for ages. Placed at the Park Street in Kolkata, the church became more famous in 1997 when the dead body of Mother Teresa was kept there for a week before the funeral.

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6. St. John’s Church

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St. John’s Church is the first public building constructed by the East India Company after Kolkata became the Capital of the British ruled India. Originally, a Cathedral, the church ranks third among the oldest churches and was completed in the year 1787 by raising funds through a public lottery. The beautiful architecture of the church includes tall pillars, grey marble floors, graceful plaques, elegant statues, and stained glass windows.

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7. St. James’ Church

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Lieutenant Governor of Bengal started the construction of this church in 1862 in Kolkata. The colonial-style and colossal structure of the church makes it one of the most admiring churches by the tourists. The tall Gothic tower, beige colour, sloping red roofs, beautiful gardens, and other parish buildings of this Anglican Church make it one of the most attractive churches in West Bengal.

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8. Armenian Church Of Holy Nazareth

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This beautiful church is located at Bada Bazar in Kolkata and was built in 1724. It is the oldest Armenian Apostolic Church with lavish marble interiors attracting numerous visitors. Within the church is a dedicated gallery, which is decorated with beautiful paintings and inset frescos that magnetizes many travellers.

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9. Bandel Church

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Built in the year 1660 it is one of the oldest and ancient Portuguese styles of churches in West Bengal. The main features of the church are the beautiful shrine leading to Mary, three altars, an organ, and numerous amazing tombstones. Bandel Church is one of the most artistically designed churches in West Bengal.

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10. Christ The King Church

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Christ The King Church is a must-see religious destination in Kolkata. It is a beautiful example of the most splendid and finest architecture of West Bengal. The artistic interiors and peaceful ambiance magnetize you to visit the church. The church also has a picturesque hall that can be rented for small functions after the church managing permission authority.

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11. Mar Thoma Syrian Church

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Mar Thoma Syrian Church is another beautiful church situated in Kolkata that follows ancient Syriac High Church traditions. Over time, the church has evolved in policies and witnessed various changes following the rule of Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The church is very active in organising social events that help the poor and those in need.

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12. Chandan Nagar Church

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This church was completed in 1884 during the French era. Situated just a few minutes away from the holy Ganges, this church is one of the excellent refiners of the British period. The bright exterior colour and breathtaking interiors make this place worth visiting. The most attractive feature of the church is the hand-drawn pictures.

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13. Roman Catholic Church

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This beautiful Catholic Church has been standing since 1768 and is one of the biggest churches in the district. The church boasts of its beautiful architecture and decoration. The main attraction is the sidewall which has the story of Jesus written on it. The peaceful ambiance and purity of the place are sure to revive your soul.

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If you are looking forward to visiting West Bengal, you must plan to explore the churches to have a rejuvenating and memorable experience. Our list of churches in West Bengal is sure to take you back to the prehistoric period and will help you during itinerary preparation. These churches are not just religious monuments but also depict the state’s vast history!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Churches In West Bengal

vidhyaasree

Mother of two little princesses who give a purpose to every single second of my existence, I frequently escape the bling of the city, and go out exploring its suburbs where Nature still exists raw. If I am not doing that, find me amidst my balcony garden; digging, composting, manuring, and harvesting – the farmer me :)