It was originally built as a "kochu pally" (chapel) in the name of St. Mary in AD 1557 near Vazhakulam Hindu temple on a hillock which later came to be known as Kochupallikunnu.

Eight decades later in AD 1640 it was shifted and rebuilt in the name of Mar Bahanan Sahada at Elamthuruthi Kunnu, the present location.

Thousands of devotees of all religions visit the shrine throughout the year and particularly during the feast of St. George, including the 10 days preceding and succeeding it.

"Chendamelam" (traditional orchestral drum beatings), "Kathinaveddi" (native cannon shots) at the foot of the flag masts, daily morning Qurbana (the holy mass), "Sandhyanamaskaram" (evening prayers) in the church and; in between, other allied programs in the church premise are the salient feature during these days.

Virakedeel (Fire Wood Collection and Procession), Vechoot (Mass Luncheon) and Nercha Vilampu (Offerings Distribution) Thousands participate in the main feast on 7 May.

After "Raza" (ceremonial procession) in the afternoon "Nercha Vilampu" (rice flour bread and chicken distribution) is done.

On the same day evening processions from the "Kurisin Thotty" (Cross Towers) at Kochalummoodu and Parackal Kadavu proceed towards Puthuppally church and reach there at about 8pm.

People on the route greet it in front of their houses or shops with wick lamps and candles before an intercessor’s photo, and they are blessed by the main priest in the procession.