MARYAM JARRAHIAN
- THOMAS CATHEDRAL CHURCH
LOCATION: FORT
In the 17th century, the growing English population of Bombay needed a place of worship. The foundation stone for St. Thomas was laid in 1676 by the governor of Bombay, Gerald Aungier. After his death, the building site lay desolate until the dynamic 27-year-old Mr. Cobbe came along. The church finally opened its doors to the public on Christmas Day, 1718.
It became a cathedral in 1837 and has been altered over the years. This is reflected in the architecture, a mix of several styles. Nearly three centuries later, Mr. Cobbe still makes his presence felt.
The building is mainly Gothic, and its entrance has an elaorate fountain in the same style. It was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott.
The altar windows were designed in the 1800s by Victorian stained glass designer and manufacturer, Charles E. Kempe.
St. Thomas Cathedral underwent major restoration work and was selected for the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Conservation Award in 2004.
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