Arthungal village, lies very close to Cherthala town and this place is very famous for the holy Basilica which has Saint Andrew as its patron. But it is famous for the Feast of St. Sebastian which is conducted every year in January for about a week.
St. Sebastian is considered to be guardian Saint of the village and thousands visit this church every year seeking the Saints blessings. People who are maimed, sick or going through difficulties visit the Basilica and find relief and solace at the feet of the saint.
During the Feast, an idol of St. Sebastian is taken out in procession and thousands participate in the worship. Many devotees crawl on their knees or roll on the ground to express their gratitude to the Saint during the Feast for the favours they received.
There is an old church behind the main Basilica with excellent carvings and Altar.
Pilgrims from Sabarimala on their return trip visit this church to seek the blessings of the saint.
In 1647 an of idol St.Sebastian struck with arrows was brought from Italy in a ship and was placed in the church and since then devotees believe He is the guardian angel of the village.
Officially it is known as the Arthungal St. Andrew's Forane Church and was elevated to the level of Basilica in 2010.
