St. Anthony's Shrine, Kochchikade
කොච්චිකඩේ ශාන්ත අන්තෝනි දේවස්ථානය
The most venerated Catholic church in Sri Lanka, where Buddhists and Hindus also come to pray. It was rebuilt after the 2019 Easter attacks.
St. Anthony's Shrine began as a small chapel established by a priest during the Dutch prohibition of Catholicism in the 18th century. The current church was built in the 19th century and houses a statue of St. Anthony, who is believed to grant prayers. Every Tuesday, large numbers of worshippers of different faiths come to light candles and pray. The church was attacked during the Easter bombings in 2019 and reopened after restoration. Entry is free and security checks are in place. Visitors should dress modestly and keep quiet during Mass.
Opening hours
Approx. 06:00–20:00
Nearby sights
- Sri Ponnambalavaneswaram Kovil
- Wolvendaal Church
- Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)
- Dutch Period Museum
- Pettah Market
- Colombo Fort
- Old Colombo Lighthouse (Clock Tower)
- Old Dutch Hospital Precinct