Goa is famous for its churches that are a highlight of early Portuguese colonization. Your trip to Goa is incomplete till you’ve witnessed the beauty of these churches. Here are the top 5 must-visit churches in Goa:
1. Basilica of Bom Jesus
The Basilica of Bom Jesus or Borea Jezuchi Bajilika is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consecrated in 1605, the church is India’s first minor basilica. The church contains the body of St. Francis Xavier in a well decorated silver casket. The body is open for public viewing once every 10 years. The last viewing was in 2014.
2. Church of St Francis of Assisi
The church was initially built in Manueline architectural style in around 1521. It was then pulled down and rebuilt in 1616 with Tuscan exterior and a Baroque interior. The church has a huge collection of painting and sculptures on display. It has a huge statue of Albuquerque, a bronze statue of St Catherine, Grey basalt statues of Lord Vishnu and Surya and a model of Vasco da Gama’s Sao Gabriel. The interiors of the church are beautifully carved and the gilded main alter is a highlight.
3. Se Cathedral
Se Cathedral or Se Catedral de Santa Catarina is the largest church in India. Dedicated to the Great Martyr Saint Catherine, it was consecrated in 1619. Built in Portuguese-Manueline architecture, the church has Tuscan exteriors and Corinthian interiors. The church has a large bell, called “Golden Bell”, which is one of the best in the world.
4. Church of St Cajetan
Built in 1656-1700, Church of Cajetan is the most beautiful church in Goa. Modeled after the St. Peter Church in Rome, it is built in Corinthian style with rectangular towers on either side of the façade. The interior is Mosaic-Corinthian style with Baroque interior and gilded with rare and beautiful paintings.
5. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
This church was initially built by the Portuguese in 1541 as a chapel. It was later replaced with the structure we now see that is in the shape of a wedding cake. The outer walls are white and the interior is colorfully decorated. The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception conducts mass every day in English, Konkani and Portuguese. The festival of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is a highlight when the church is illuminated with bright and colorful lights. The festival is celebrated on 8th March every year.
The laid back feel and the warm and welcoming people make Goa a one of its kind destination. People from different parts of the world visit Goa to witness its beauty and tranquility. From beaches to adventure sports, shopping to sightseeing, it is the perfect vacation destination.
The Basilica of Bom Jesus or Borea Jezuchi Bajilika is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consecrated in 1605, the church is India’s first minor basilica. The church contains the body of St. Francis Xavier in a well decorated silver casket. The body is open for public viewing once every 10 years. The last viewing was in 2014.
2. Church of St Francis of Assisi
