Highlights of MangaluruMangalore – known as Mangaluru in the local language, was once a famous port, known in the 6th century as a major source of pepper. It was mentioned in writings of the 14th century Arab traveller Ibn Batuta, who noted its trade in pepper and ginger, and the presence of merchants from Persia and Yemen. Perhaps some of its good luck is due to its name, which comes from Mangladevi, the Goddess of Fortune.
Your first stop will be at a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Hoysala style Gokarnath temple was built by a Hindu businessman for the non Brahmins of Mangalore, who were denied entry to Brahmin Temples.
The Romanesque-style St. Aloysius Chapel on Lighthouse Hill is sometimes referred to as the Sistine Chapel of South India. Its 19th century frescoes, painted by the Italian-trained Jesuit priest Moscheni, envelope the walls and ceilings in Biblical scenes. Whether or not it is due to his influence, the town does have a Roman Catholic population of about 20%, extraordinarily high for an Indian city. The rector will give you a brief introduction to the chapel’s history and bring your attention to some of the finer points of the paintings.
Your last stop is another temple, the 11th century Kadri Manjunath Temple, an important centre for the worship of Lord Shiva (one of the holy Hindu trinity), and the Natha-Pantha cult – an outgrowth of Hinduism. Enshrined in the unusual square and towered sanctuary are a number of superb bronzes. There is also a Shiva lingam that is believed to have the power to fulfil a wish made while pouring water on it. The main temple is surrounded by nine water tanks, and a number of smaller shrines dedicated to other gods, including Lord Ganesha, the elephant headed god who is the remover of obstacles; and the dynamic goddess Durga.
The temple also has traces of Buddhist influence, including a life-sized, three-faced, six-armed figure of a seated Bodhisattva with enamelled eyes and an intricately carved crown. Every person who comes here, irrespective of caste or creed, is welcomed and given a free meal.
After your tour of the temple you will return to the pier.

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