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St. Anthony's Shrine
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Landmark
St. Anthony's Shrine in Kochchikade, Colombo, is one of the most prominent Roman Catholic churches in Sri Lanka and a symbol of interfaith harmony. The origins of the shrine date back to the late 18th century when a priest named Father Antonio conducted clandestine services at the site to escape Dutch colonial persecution. According to local tradition, a miracle occurred where the sea receded to allow the safe construction of a religious structure on the shore. The present building was expanded during the 19th century and officially consecrated as a church in 1834. The shrine houses a sacred relic of St. Anthony of Padua brought from Italy, which is revered by devotees of various faiths, including Buddhists and Hindus. In 2019, the shrine was severely damaged during the Easter Sunday bombings but was swiftly reconstructed and reopened as a national monument of resilience. Today, it remains a designated national shrine, attracting thousands of pilgrims every Tuesday who come to seek blessings and protection through the saint's intercession.
- Location: Sri Lanka
- Top sights: New Kathiresan Kovil · St. Anthony's Church · Red Mosque
- Nearby: Moratuwa (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 76 | 71 | 115 | 226 | 224 | 143 | 99 | 113 | 162 | 292 | 305 | 175 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
St. Anthony's Shrine is a major Catholic church in Colombo dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua. Visitors are welcome during opening hours to see the interior.
Typical hours
The church is typically open daily from early morning until evening. Exact hours may vary with the service schedule, so check ahead.
Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed without flash. Please respect the devotion of worshippers and avoid disruptive behavior.
Time needed
Allow about 30 minutes to 1 hour for the visit. The church is not very large, but the artistic details invite lingering.
Combine with
Combine the church visit with other religious sites in Colombo. The nearby Wolvendaal church district is also worth a walk.
Getting there
The church is located in central Colombo and is easily reachable by tuk-tuk or taxi. Buses also stop nearby.
Insider tip
Visit the church on a weekday morning when it is quieter. You can then enjoy the atmosphere in peace.
Geography
Facts
- The shrine was officially consecrated in the year 1834.
- It contains an authentic relic of St. Anthony of Padua.
- The site was restored in 50 days following the 2019 attacks.
- The annual feast of St. Anthony is celebrated on June 13th.
- Pope John Paul II visited the shrine in January 1995.
- Tuesdays are the busiest days for pilgrim visits at the shrine.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town St. Anthony's Shrine (10)
Red Mosque
Mosque in Sri Lanka, known for its red facade.
🌐 redmasjid.com🕒 Mo-Th, Sa, Su 10:30-12:00, 13:00-15:00, 16:15-17:30
Sammangodu Sri Kathirvelayutha Swamy Kovil
Hindu temple dedicated to the god Murugan as a warrior.
Khan Clock Tower🗼 tower
Clock tower in Colombo, Sri Lanka, a historic landmark.
Sri Bodhirajaramaya
Buddhist temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Sri Bodhiraja Viharaya
Buddhist temple, a place for meditation and worship.
St.Peter's Church
Christian church dedicated to Saint Peter.
All Saints Church⛪ church
Church dedicated to all saints.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is St. Anthony's Shrine located?
In Kochchikade, a district of Colombo near the harbor.
Why do people of all religions visit this shrine?
St. Anthony is revered here as a miracle worker, and the site is a symbol of religious unity.
When is the main feast day?
The main feast of St. Anthony is celebrated on June 13th.
Is there a dress code for visitors?
Visitors should be dressed modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Is photography allowed?
Outside yes, but inside during prayers it is often prohibited or discouraged.
St. Anthony's Shrine: where is it located?
St. Anthony's Shrine is located in Sri Lanka.
St. Anthony's Shrine: what is there to see?
Highlights include New Kathiresan Kovil, St. Anthony's Church, Red Mosque.
St. Anthony's Shrine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Jul.
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