Christianity had arrived in the state of Uttar Pradesh ages ago and the Churches of Uttar Pradesh are its spectacular evidences. Most of these churches were built by British architects and exhibit beautiful gothic architecture. A number of Christian pilgrims have been sheltered in these churches.
All Saints Cathedral
All Saints Cathedral is an Anglican Cathedral situated in Allahabad. It is popularly known as Patthar Girja. The church was designed by a British architect Sir William Emerson, who had also designed the Victoria Memorial of Kolkata, and was consecrated in 1887. It is a part of the Church of North India and celebrates its anniversary on November 1st, All Saints` Day. It exhibits magnificent gothic style architecture of 13th century. The church has a huge interior for accommodating about 400 people. Excellent artistry can be witnessed in the marble and glass work which have retained their beauty even after more than 125 years. Beautiful plaques are also decorated inside the church that illustrates the demise of various British nationals during their rule in India. A lush green garden surrounds this spectacular church.
Basilica of Our Lady of Graces
Another beautiful monument of this state is Basilica of Our Lady of Graces, located in Meerut. It is a Roman Catholic Church dedicated to Virgin Mary. Begum Samru, a Muslim lady and the wife of a European mercenary soldier Walter Reinhardt Sombre, founded this church. It is amongst the biggest churches of northern India. Antonio Reghellini designed this church who was an Italian. The craftsmanship of the church is highly admirable and the interiors are intricately adorned with marble and coloured stones. Its most alluring features are stained glass dome and precious stone work.
Kanpur Memorial Church
Kanpur Memorial Church is situated in Kanpur. It was previously known as All Souls` Cathedral. The church was established in the 1875 in the honour of the British who died during the Siege of Cawnpore. Walter Granville designed this church in Lombardic Gothic style. Polychrome dressings and bright red brick forms the elegant frame of the church. A Memorial Garden is located at the east of the church. The church also houses a beautiful gothic screen which was designed by Henry Yule.
St. John`s Church
St. John`s Church is situated in Meerut. It is a parish church under the administration of the diocese of Agra of Church of North India. It was constructed from 1819 to 1821. It is the most ancient church of northern India. St. John`s Church cemetery is situated near this church. The church is built in magnificent gothic architecture.
Other Churches of Uttar Pradesh
Apart from this other churches of Uttar Pradesh enlist Christ Church Holy Trinity, Jamuna Church, St. George`s Church, St. Joseph`s Church, St. Joseph`s Roman Catholic Church, St. Mary`s Church and Sacred Heart Church.
Churches of Uttar Pradesh are the finest examples of brilliant artistry. Their most attractive features are the stained glass windows and exquisite marble works. These churches immensely enrich the national heritage of the country and attract a number of tourists from all over the world irrespective of their caste, creed and religion.
