Padri Ki Haveli, Patna, Bihar India

Situated in the Patna city area, Padri Ki Haveli (Priest's Mansion) also known as St. Mary's Church is one of the major attraction of the city. It has the distinction of being the oldest church of Bihar, originally built in 1713, & now about to celebrate its 3rd century of existence. It is affiliated to the Roman Catholics and a major visiting destination for the Christians.

The Church went into major renovation during 1772-1779 under the guidance of Tirreto, a Venetian architect, who came from Calcutta. It is seventy feet in length, forty feet in width and fifty feet in height. During its course, it was destroyed few times. In 1763, the building was destroyed and records were burnt by the soldiers of Nawab Mir Qasim after a quarrel with the English trader broke out. During 1857, the same was damaged due to communal sentiments prevailing at that time. However, today the Church stands tall and is a holy place for the Christians.

The Church also witnessed the stay of Mother Teresa for three month during 1948. She had came here for a training in the Holy Family Hospital. The room, she stayed is still well preserved. A notice board in front of room says "Mother Teresa, who started her mission of love after undertaking training at Padri Ki Haveli, stayed in this room, 1948." The room has many things, used by her during the stay.

Padri ki Haveli is a historical, religious and famous destination in Patna. It is open to all section of people and anyone can visit the Church. One should get time to visit the Church while visiting Patna.