Its name derives from Kadal thuruth, meaning near to the beach as it is believed that several centuries ago, the Arabian Sea extended inward into the place, and that it receded due to a tsunami.

It is a transit point between the hilly middle region of Kerala and backwater coastal land.

The first Sandesha Kavyam (Message in Poetry) in Malayalam called "Unnuneeli Sandesham" gives an insight into the history of the town.

The work describes the grand harbour of the town in great detail, although the sea is now several miles away having receded some time in the 14th century possibly following an earthquake or a tsunami.

There are also replicas of Vaikom & Ettumanoor Shiva Idols in the temple, thus it is believed that visit here is as good as a visiting all three noted Shiva temples (Vaikom, Ettumanoor and Thaliyil Mahadeva) on the same day before noon.

The name Kaduthuruthy, also believed to have emanated from this temple and etiology has it that Kadichu (bite) Irutthy (make some one sit).

Bishop Alexander de Campo alias Palliveettil Chandy Metran belonging to Muttuchira Parish.

He was consecrated Titular Bishop of Megara in Achala and Vicar Apostolic and Administrator of the Archbishopric of Cranganore on 31 January 1663, at Kaduthuruthy and celebrated his first Pontifical Mass at Muttuchira Church on 1 February 1663.

Kaduthuruthy Valiya Palli (കടുത്തുരുത്തി വലിയ പളളി) / Ave Maria (ആവേ മരിയ) of Knanaya Community was established in AD 400.

Kaduthuruthy Valiya Palli had a glorious history in the past with its supreme position with the Vadakkumkur (present Vaikom) Kingdom.

Thus the present church building is constructed with all its artistic splendour and characteristics of Gothic Art, to proclaim and celebrate the gospel of Jesus Christ in worship and value the heritage of biblical faith, tradition, liturgy and the rich variety of customs and tradition in Knanaya Community guided by the forefathers.