Visakhapatnam: City of Destiny Visakhapatnam is renowned for its magnificent beaches and regal food, as well as architectural landmarks and historic churches. A logical thing to do as Christmas approaches is to celebrate it amid the greatest settings imaginable.
Given this, what better setting can be there for a celebration than a gorgeous church filled with religious fervour and tantalising cuisine. In this context, Deccan Chronicle has examined top churches that offer wonderful worship services and Christmas celebrations.
St. Paul’s Church tops the list as despite being 180 years’ old, it blends beautifully with the grandeur of contemporary Vizag, thanks to its wonderful all-encompassing designs. St. Paul’s is the first church constructed by East India Company.
This historically significant building close to the old post office was built under Sir Arthur Cotton's direction. It has a pipe organ that draws a lot of aficionados. Jinny Richards, a 61-year-old retired IT employee, says about the location, "The property features paintings from Europe. It has constructions made of teak wood obtained from Burma."
The historic Ross Hill Shrine, often known as the "Hill Chapel", has been standing strong since 1864. It had been constructed by local English judge Monsieur Ross and turned into a chapel three years later. On a Christmas night, the gorgeous view of the city and port is all that the eyes need.
According to social studies teacher Sunil Kumar Yadav, "The serene location makes it a suitable spot for devotion. During Christmas season, the entire place is decked with lights."
St. Ann's Cathedral, the city's first catholic church and another historic beauty, was built in 1770. It is said to have been founded by Theatine Fathers inside the residence of a Portuguese businessman. If you like vintage sights, this is the location for you to visit. It was a convent for a long time before becoming a boarding house.
It came to be known as a co-cathedral shortly after 1935. It provides a serene setting for prayer and worship, according to Margaret, a frequent attendee of the church services.
The second-largest Parish in the city, St. Anthony's Church, built in 1852 to serve the needs of Tamil-speaking Catholics, is a joy to visit during Christmas season. This renowned Vizag church is situated bang in centre of the city close to Jagadamba. The church later became an educational facility with the same name.
