Built by the Portuguese in the 16th Century, St. Francis Church is the oldest known church in India. On his 3rd visit to the state of Kerala, Vasco da Gama, fell ill and died. He was buried in the church grounds. Even though his remains were later taken back to Portugal, his burial site is still marked at the church.
The St, Francis Church is the oldest church that was built by Europeans anywhere in India. The famous Portuguese trader Vasco da Gamais well known for reaching India from Europe by sea instead of by the usual overland route. He fell ill and then died in Kochi, and was buried in the St. Francis Church there. Later his remains were eventually taken back to Portugal. In spite of that, his burial spot inside the church has been clearly marked out and many people still visit this church to see this marked spot.
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