Thrissur district was under the control of Dutch and British invaders. During their period they had created several beautiful churches, an example is the Lourdes Cathedral.  One of the largest churches in Kerala, is located in the heart of Thrissur town in the state of Kerala, South India. Dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes, the church is noted for its imposing interior. Main attraction is an underground shrine which is a masterpiece of architectural designing. Fr John Maliekkal is said to have planned and constructed this church. The exterior of this church features an Indo-European facade with pink spires. The Centenary of this church was celebrated during the historic visit of Pope John Paul II to Thrissur in 1986. The Cathedral church attracts thousands of pilgrims every month.