The St Mary’s Church been a major religious monument in the city of Negombo, is one of the largest cathedrals of Sri Lanka. This is a Roman Catholic Church with a rich history of 140 years, thus is a major tourist and pilgrim hotspot of the island.
Build prior to the 16th century, this is a majestic edifice elaborate with religious depictions painted across the ceiling. The church is located in the grand street of Negombo town and is twenty six minutes away from the Katunayaka International airport. This makes it easily accessible from any of the Colombo airport hotels or resorts, some of which are close to the Negombo Beach such as Jetwing Blue.
The church has the epic feel of an ancient cathedral on the onset with lean pillars on both sides and great ivory walls. Indoors is a grand and serene prayer room with more ivory pillars and beautiful statuettes of red and gold angels placed alongside the prayer space. This is a long praying space decorated with ancient architecture. It is filled with benches for pilgrims to sit on, during services.
The outside of the aisle is packed with vibrant religious statuettes dispersed throughout. The magnificent and intricately detailed sculpture of Mother Mary being made the queen of the heavens, placed in the end of the aisle is picturesque sight to see. The charming paintings of Mother Mary, god and angels painted gracefully across the ceiling are of course the highlight if the premises.
Next to the church, stands a small beautiful building with a remarkable central portrayal of Christ. The building is surrounded by stained striking glass windows which is a delightful sight in the evening as the light falls through the glass. This is an area visited by guests and pilgrims in the afternoon when the main church is closed.
Damon Starky is a creative nomadic travel writer, who is well informed and experienced on a wide range of interests that would connect to the needs of any type of traveler. Google+
