“Luz” is a Portuguese word which means light. This spot was like a forest and even to this day, this church is also known as “kaatukoil” where in Tamil language, it translates to “forest church”.
The existing structure at Luz church was built by the Portuguese in 1516. The architecture consists of patterns of gothic arches, Baroque ornamentation compounded with classic European style. The altars are gilded with silver and gold leaves and the ceilings with powder blue Fresco paintings. The foundation stone of this church is considered to be ‘one of the oldest European monuments in India.’
This ancient church was raised to the status of a Shrine on 15th August, 2010 and also to the status of a Heritage Monumental Shrine in the city of Chennai. This Heritage status is accorded by the Department of Metropolitan Development Authority as Heritage Building in Tamil Nadu.