Poondi Madha Basilica is a popular pilgrimage center and a place of immense religious relevance for those who follow Christian faith. The lush green fields and the abundance of nature throughout the region where the church is located attract thousands of tourists from India and abroad throughout the year.

Location

Poondi Madha Basilica is located about 18 kilometers from Tiruchirapalli. The church is in the tiny and nondescript village of Poondi which lies between Colleroon Alamelupuram and Cauvery, two of the biggest rivers flowing through the state.

History

The Church was built due to the efforts of a missionary, Rev. Fr. Constantine Joseph Beschi during the years 1714 to 1718. The church was named after Mother Mary by the missionary. He was very resourceful and learnt the local Tamil language to understand the natives of the state better and converse with people more effectively. He achieved amazing expertise in Tamil. He went on to write poems, compose a literary grammar and more. He was bestowed the title of Veeramamunivar or the scholar of Tamil language.

Miracles Associated With the Church

The church has witnessed numerous miracles since its inception and is believed to have cured many devotees. As the news of the miracles started to spread in the state, the church stated attracting more and more devotees. The deity was called Poondi Madha which is Tamil for mother, in reverence. The Shrine was acclaimed as pilgrimage center of permanent nature by His Eminence Simon Cardinal Lourdusamy. Soon after this, on 3rd August, 1999, the Pope declared that the church was elevated to the status of Basilica.

Key Attractions

The shrine, in its current state, represents an amalgamation of French and Gothic construction. The church displays neat line images of the 12 devotees of Jesus Christ. It is clearly one of the most attractive sights of the Basilica. The church is also believed to have been a part of the cross which supposedly is the same on which Jesus Christ was punished.

The Festival

A grand festival is observed every year here from the first week of March and lasts till 15th. Thousands of devotees visit the church during the festival to earn the blessings of the Mother. A feast is held in September every year. The Church authorities make arrangements to provide special staying arrangements to the pilgrims at reasonably low tariffs. There are deluxe A/C rooms as well as non-AC and budget rooms available.

Information for Visitors

The timings of daily mass are 0600, 1115, and 1715 hours. On first Saturdays of every month, special Novena prayer happens at 0930 hours.

How to Visit

By Bus

Poondi Madha Basilica is located just 18 kilometers from Tiruchirappalli and can be reached by local transport like state-run bus or autos.

By Train

The nearest railway station is South Budalur at 10 kilometers. Thanjavur Railway Station is 35 kilometers from the church.

By Air

The nearest airport is Trichy at 45 kilometers from the church.