The Kodungalloor town is situated 35 kilometers south
of Thrissur/ Trichur district. Kodungalloor was once an important and
strategic port of the Chera rulers of Tamilnadu. The Greeks called it
(Kodungalloor) as Muziris and is a place engrossed in rich history.
Backwaters surround Kodungalloor. It is said to be the place where St.
Thomas first preached Christianity in India. At Kodungalloor, there are
worship places belonging to various religions.
Cheraman Juma Masjid
This mosque in Kodungalloor looks like a Hindu temple. It was earlier
made of wood. Built in the year 629 A.D., it is the first mosque in
India where Juma prayers were started. Recent changes have been made and
it now has concrete minarets. The interiors remain wooden though with a
Kerala oil lamp right in the center. This lamp is of great significance
to people of all religions. Some of them bring oil for the lamp on the
auspicious occasions of major family events.
Bhagawati Temple
The Bhagawati temple at Kodungallur is known throughout Kerala. The
Bharani festival at the Bhagawati temple is one of the biggest in
Kerala. It is a month of festivities and during this period, one can
also witness the largest congregation of oracles, not seen anywhere in
Kerala.
St.Thomas Church
Jesus Christ's apostle, St. Thomas is believed to have landed in
Kodungalloor (earlier Muziris) in 52 AD. The St. Thomas Church
established by him houses ancient relics. St. Thomas is portrayed in the
gospels as a courageous and brave personality. He had preached the
gospel from Ethiopia to China. At Kodungalloor, St. Thomas established
the first Christian church in India and is the architect behind many
other Churches in Kerala.



