St. Sebastian's Cathedral, Mannar
புனித செபஸ்தியார் பேராலயம்
The cathedral of the Catholic diocese of Mannar. Its white façade stands out in the town centre, offering a strong sense of local Catholic life.
St. Sebastian's Cathedral is the cathedral of the Diocese of Mannar, located in the centre of Mannar town. Mannar is one of the regions of Sri Lanka with the highest proportion of Catholics, and its faith dates back to the 16th-century mission of St. Francis Xavier. The church has a white façade and a spacious, bright interior, and it is packed for Sunday Mass. A visit takes 15 to 30 minutes and can be combined with the town-centre market and the seaside fish market. During Mass, keep quiet and dress modestly.
Opening hours
Daytime; Mass times per the church
Nearby sights
- Mannar Fort
- Mannar Baobab Tree
- Vankalai Sanctuary
- Thiruketheeswaram Temple
- Giant's Tank
- Doric Bungalow, Arippu
- Talaimannar Pier & Lighthouse
- Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu