A fortress of protection

St. Mary's Church, an architectural gem within Fort St. George complex, will transport you back in time. Established in 1679 AD, this magnificent Anglican English church holds incredible stories and remarkable features that set it apart from others. A few notable items found within its walls include an original Bible from 1660 AD as well as two curved staircases for accessing its western gallery from outside.

A symphony of European architecture

This church enthrals with its stunning European-style architecture, boasting polished lime and mortar construction with a uniquely curved roof, intricate wooden decorations, delicate glasswork embellishments, as well as its striking European-inspired architecture. It is a truly harmonious blend of beauty and history.

Built with walls 5-feet thick, the church is said to be explosion-proof, making it a symbol of resilience and fortitude. The incredible thickness of these walls was meant to protect it from attack during storms. One unique and ingenious feature included in its design was a four-foot thick roof rounded like that of wagon roof, in order to cause cannonballs ricocheting off it and into safety.

History weaves its tale

For this church to exist at Fort St. George in 1678 was no mean feat: either Edward Foule, Master Gunner of Fort St. George, or William Dixon, Chief Gunner, were responsible as architects. Construction started on 25 March - Lady Day - which earned it its name. With its special roof design, this building also was uniquely bombproof at that time within Fort St George.

Construction was completed within two years, and on October 28, 1680 by Reverend Richard Portman of Fort Henry Chapel it was consecrated as a church. A ceremony took place that featured small arms and cannon shots fired by its garrison as part of the dedication ritual.

Religion was held at Madras from its founding until 1678 when Streynsham Master was appointed the English East India Company's Agent at Madras and conducted religious services in its dining-room of Factory House.

Timings

Opening time - 02:30 PM - 04:30 PM (Tuesdays and Thursdays)

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM and 02:30 PM - 04:30 PM (Saturdays)

Tales etched in stone

St. Mary's Church stands witness to numerous significant moments in history, from hosting Robert Clive and Margaret Maskelyne's wedding in 1753, to serving as barracks and granaries during wartime sieges between December 1758 and January 1759 during the Second Carnatic War. Its walls speak volumes about courage and resilience.

The church's spacious gallery, supported by Burma teak pillars carved to look like palm leaves, adds grandeur. Once serving as the Governor's seat, this gallery was significantly expanded in 1761 to incorporate an organ and provide two curved staircases that still lead to it from outside. St. Mary's Church was consecrated in 1680 amidst thunderous small arms fire resounding across its grounds to mark its significance - further testimony of its great significance!

Robert Clive and Elihu Yale married at this ancient prayer house. Elihu Yale served as governor of Fort St. George as well as vestryman and treasurer for St Mary's Church before giving money to Cotton Mather which helped fund its establishment as Yale University in America.

St. Mary's Church boasts of the final resting places of some of Fort St. George's governors such as Sir Thomas Munro, Bt. George Lord Pigot (Town Crier of Fort St George), Rt Hon Vere Henry Lord Hobart and Sir Henry George Ward who add an air of reverence and historical importance to its walls.

A journey of enchantment beyond

Immerse yourself in Chennai's history and culture by visiting nearby landmarks. Just three kilometres from you is Fort St. George, an iconic historical site housing the Fort Museum containing British colonial-era artefacts, while Marina Beach (second longest urban beach worldwide) provides stunning sunsets as you enjoy the serenity of sea breeze.

Visit the impressive San Thome Basilica to pay your respects at one of its most revered religious sites: Saint Thomas the Apostle's tomb. Alternatively, explore art, history and archaeology at the Government Museum with its wide-ranging collections of sculptures and ancient artefacts.

St. Mary's Church invites visitors to enjoy its combination of history and architectural glory, offering travellers a timeless oasis. Stepping inside this sacred haven will transport you back through time. Take part in its remarkable journey and immerse yourself in Chennai's rich legacy!