Destination guide
About St. Francis Church
St. Francis Church stands in Fort Kochi, Ernakulam district, Kerala, and is central to the story of European settlement on the Kochi coast. Kerala Tourism traces its origins to Portuguese Franciscan friars in the early 16th century, with the church later passing through Dutch and British hands before coming under the Church of South India.
Its simple gabled form, timber roof and restrained interior preserve an atmosphere very different from the more ornate Santa Cruz Basilica nearby. The church is especially famous for its connection with Vasco da Gama. The Portuguese explorer died in Kochi in 1524 and was initially buried here; his burial place remains marked even though his remains were transferred to Portugal years later.
Historical registers, inscriptions and memorial elements add further interest for visitors. Located near Parade Ground and other Fort Kochi attractions, St. Francis Church is an essential stop for travellers exploring Kerala’s colonial and maritime heritage.
At a glance
Quick Summary
St. Francis Church is a 16th-century Fort Kochi landmark in Ernakulam, Kerala, noted for its Portuguese, Dutch and British history and for the original burial place of Vasco da Gama.
Nammude Keralam Last checked 2026-08-08
