St. Philomena’s Church to get another facelift

The work on the second stage of conservation has commenced from Monday.

Mysuru:  St Philomena’s Catholic Church in Mysuru, one of the largest churches in South India, will be given yet another facelift to restore its opulence.

The church is a major landmark of the city as its tall twin towers can be seen from a long distance, and is also a major tourist attraction.

After the first round of conservation two years ago, the edifice will undergo a makeover at a cost of Rs. 2.70 crore, sanctioned by the Tourism Department.

The previous conservation was funded by the Tourism Department and Rs. 50 lakh was spent on the restoration which included a portion of the church.

The renovation had become essential because of weakening of the church’s rooftop and walls due to leaking of rainwater. The roof had been strengthened, curbing leakage of rainwater.

The work on the second stage of conservation has commenced from Monday.

The entire church will get a makeover, including the interiors and exteriors. Plastering on the damped walls inside the church will be removed and given lime plastering.

Steel scaffolding will be used to restore the 175-feet tall twin towers of the church. All existing features of the church will be restored and conserved, complying with the original architecture, according to the department.

In this connection, the Director of Archaeology, Heritage and Museums, Dr. C.G. Betsurmath, who is also the Commissioner of Mysore City Corporation, Bishop of Mysore Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Vazhapilly, Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Cathedral Fr. N.T. Joseph, former Parish Priest Fr. K.A. William and others inspected the church premises on Mar 24.

Source: The Hindu