Oriyur is a pilgrim center as it is sanctified by the martyrdom of St John De Britto, a Portugese Jesuit. He was more popularly known as 'Arul Anandar.' In 1693, this saint was beheaded here and the sand dune is said to have turned red. A magnificent shrine with a Portugese façade, the
St John De Britto Catholic Church, has been built here in his honour. The church holds a captivating statue of Arul Anandar offering his neck in humble submission to the executioner.
The peculiar blood red sand at this place is the major attraction. It is said that many incurable diseases are cured after the sand is applied on the bodies of devotees. Couples are said to be blessed with children on visiting the shrine and praying to the saint. February 4 is the feast day of this saint. Thousands of devotees visit this place every year. Oriyur has become an important place in
Ramanathapuram District on account of its historic and religious significance.
