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The 474-year-old cathedral in Vasai used to be place of worship that was building during the Portuguese rule in India
Founded by the Jesuits in 1565, the church was rebuilt in 1597.
The historic Cathedral Church of the Vasai Diocese in the state of Maharashtra has received a special award from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). For its exceptional preservation efforts, the cathedral has been honoured by UNESCO with the 2025 Asia-Pacific award for Cultural Heritage Conservation.
A marvellous gem of India’s colonial and architectural history, the Vasai Cathedral goes back to the 16th century. Built during the Portuguese rule, the cathedral is located in Vasai near the popular city of Mumbai. The ancient sight is also known as the Cathedral of Saint Joseph or Our Lady of Grace Cathedral.
On Our Lady of Grace Cathedral
The Our Lady of Grace Cathedral is situated within the historic Vasai Fort in Maharashtra. The cathedral acts as one of the lasting remains of the Portuguese rule and the related architecture. The cathedral boasts a European ecclesiastical design blended with local influences. What was once a prominent place of worship for the local communities now stands as an iconic historic place. Locals and tourists visiting the place admire the excellent stonework, the extensive arches and the unmissable and towering facade.
Over four centuries may have passed, but the cathedral still leaves its imprints on the minds of those embracing its shores. History enthusiasts, tourists, and photographers are regular visitors to the structure from the Portuguese rule. The restoration and conservation efforts for the cathedral had been carried out by the local communities. The 2025 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award is thus a salute to their hard work.
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Founded by the Jesuits in 1565, the church was rebuilt in 1597. The stone structure was elevated to cathedral status back in 1998. Related to the Portuguese rule, the structure carries evident Gothic and Manueline styles that were popular in that era. The spacious cathedral arena features a grand façade with tall arched doorways and windows.
The honour and the recognition given by UNESCO are expected to boost tourism for the Vasai Cathedral both at a domestic and international level. The heritage site is now expected to gain greater visibility and credibility among Indians and those living abroad as UNESCO’s stamp of approval highlights a place’s historic, cultural or architectural importance.
February 27, 2026, 13:28 IST