Sacred Heart Cathedral is located in the very center of New Delhi, near the business district of Connaught Place and Gol Dak Khana (the historic building of the General Post Office). It is one of the oldest Christian churches in the capital and the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Delhi.
Together with the neighboring St. Columbus Schools and the Monastery of Jesus and Mary, the cathedral occupies a vast territory of about 14 acres. The cathedral is an active Catholic church and an important spiritual center of the city.
History of Sacred Heart Cathedral
The history of the cathedral`s construction began in 1929, when the consecration of the cornerstone took place by the Bishop of Agra. The initiator of the construction was the Italian Franciscan priest Father Luke Vannucci, who in 1922 rented land from the Government of Delhi for 7,000 rupees. In 1930, construction of the temple began, financed by British colonial officers.
The construction took place during the period when New Delhi was just being formed as the new capital of British India. According to surviving reports, Father Luke was able to persuade Lady Willingdon, the wife of the Viceroy, to change the original development plans that could have obscured the view of the cathedral. Construction was completed in 1934–1935.
Since its consecration, Sacred Heart Cathedral has been the center of Catholic life in Delhi. It was honored with two papal visits: in 1986 and 1999, Pope John Paul II came here. The tree he planted during his first visit still grows at the entrance to the cathedral, next to the installed statue of the pontiff.
Architecture of Sacred Heart Cathedral
The cathedral`s design was developed by British architect Henry Medd, who was part of the team of Edwin Lutyens — the chief architect of New Delhi and the creator of the Presidential Palace project. Subsequently, Medd served as Chief Architect of the Government of India from 1939 until the country gained independence.
The temple is built in the Italian architectural style, which makes it unique among the buildings of Delhi. The main façade is decorated with four white columns supporting a pediment. On both sides of the entrance portico rise square towers with three tiers of colonnades. The building is constructed of red brick, which is characteristic of the colonial architecture of that period.
The interior space of Sacred Heart Cathedral is distinguished by spaciousness and grandeur. The high vaulted ceiling, polished stone floors and wide arches create an atmosphere of solemnity. The main altar is made of white marble and was donated to the parish by the famous Catholic priest and writer Anthony de Mello. Behind the altar is a large fresco depicting the Last Supper. In the side chapel there is a large crucifix and a statue of the Virgin Mary.
The interior is decorated with stained glass windows and carved wooden elements, including an intricately carved wooden ceiling. The cathedral also has an organ. The cathedral harmoniously fits into the surrounding landscape: its territory includes well-maintained gardens and lawns, creating an atmosphere of peace and seclusion in the center of the metropolis.
Conducting services at Sacred Heart Cathedral
Masses and services are held daily at the cathedral. The mass schedule varies depending on the time of year. The temple is especially popular on the days of the major Christian holidays — Christmas and Easter. On these days, thousands of believers visit the cathedral, and services are sometimes held outdoors — on the sports ground of the neighboring school. The Christmas midnight mass is one of the most significant events in the life of the cathedral. Throughout the year, cultural and musical programs are also held at the cathedral.
Visitors can observe the services, following the rules of conduct in the church: clothing should cover shoulders and knees, silence should be observed inside the cathedral and worshippers should not be disturbed. Photography and video shooting inside the cathedral is prohibited.
Practical information for visitors
Sacred Heart Cathedral is located on Gol Dak Khana Road in the Gole Market area, approximately 2 km from Rajiv Chowk metro station and 3 km from New Delhi station. The cathedral can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw or bus.
The cathedral is open to visitors daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Entrance is free. The best time to visit is in the morning on weekdays, when the cathedral is quiet and you can enjoy its architecture and atmosphere. The cathedral is crowded during Sunday masses and festive services.
Sacred Heart Cathedral is one of the architectural and spiritual gems of New Delhi, located in close proximity to other significant landmarks of the capital — Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, the Red Fort and Connaught Place. Its Italian architecture, peaceful atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit for both believers and tourists interested in the cultural heritage of Delhi.
