In the state assembly elections of 1967 and 1971, there was a constituency known as the Saint Thomas Mount.
Hill shrine
A shrine dedicated to "Our Lady of Expectation" (Mother Mary) was built in 1523 on top of the mount. The altar of this shrine was built on the spot where St. Thomas' death has occurred. At the northern foot of the mount, is a gateway of four impressive arches surmounted by a cross bearing the inscribed date 1547. A flight of 160 steps leads up to the summit of the mount. There are 14 stations of the cross erected on the way to the summit.
A panoramic view of the city of Chennai as seen from the top of St. Thomas Mount