Weather :
Timings : 7:00 AM
Entry Fee : Free
St. Mary’s Church is one of the largest cathedrals in Sri Lanka, located in the heart of Negombo. Even though Negombo is a multi-religious city, the majority of the people are Roman Catholics.
St. Mary’s Church, also known as the ‘Maha Veediya Palliya’ seems to rise above other buildings in Negombo which is also known as ‘Little Rome’ due to its numerous churches and Portuguese - Dutch influence. The Church stands as a mesmerizing building with cream yellow walls and black and white marble detail.
Locals people and tourists can all join in the morning prayers that take place below the beautifully decorated ceiling of the Church and enjoy the light that comes through the stained glass windows.
This 140-year-old Church is famously known for one painting of Christ that was painted by N.S. Godamanne, who was a Buddhist painter. The thought of Buddhist art for a Church is what makes this Church stand out from the rest. The Church is also known for its magnificent church organ and stained glass windows. Today, the Church has over 3000 members headed by five priests.