Velankanni Church Located on the sandy shores of Bay of Bengal, Velankanni Church is considered as one of the holiest Christian pilgrimage destinations in India n and is situated on the Coromandel Coast, 350 km south of Chennai and 12 km south of Nagapattinam. It is said that Virgin Mary appeared here along with Baby Jesus around the end of the 16th and the beginning of the 17th century, after which Velankanni became a revered site for the Christian community. Declared as the holy city by the Pope, it draws devotees in large number from all over the world.
Officially spelt as Vailankanni, this small hamlet is renowned for its Roman Catholic shrine, Basilica of Our Lady of Good health which is also known as the Velankanni Church. Also fondly known as 'Lourdes of the East', the shrine represents a melting pot of many cultures, international and religious harmony. The church is completely dedicated to Virgin Mary and the Heavenly Mother. It is believed by the devotees of the church that Lady of Health or Madonna of Velankanni possesses miraculous powers. People of every religion, caste and creed visit the church to pay their respect to the great lady.
Velankanni Beach is one of the famous beach in nagapattinam district, previously it was in Thanjavur District, one of the most entertainment beach in nagapattinam district, Mata is the most powerful . Vellankani Beach is one of the most scenic beaches on the Eastern coast of India. The Church of Our Lady of Health is located very close to the beach.
Velankanni Shrine Historical Museum | Nagapattinam Offerings of gold, silver other metals and kinds, received from pilgrims, are displayed here. The Museum Open from 6.30 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. every day.
The exhibition hall is a structure contiguous the Church. This historical center was worked to house the contributions which the aficionados introduced to the mother as a badge of appreciation for the abundant gifts they got.
A few articles here are truly intriguing. There is a church building made totally by coins by an aficionado, there are many letters and even inscriptions on rock.