Goa is a land filled beautiful beaches, pleasant weather and many historical sites. Some of these sites include churches which are as old as Goa’s history. For a spiritual experience on your trip, visit some of the following churches in Goa:
Se Cathedral
This is church dates back to 1619 and is one of the largest in India. It is dedicated to queen Catherine of Alexandria and is regarded as a fine example of Portuguese Manueline architecture. The edifice took fifty seven years to construct and is often promoted by Goa’s Tourism Industry. Apart from its association with religion and architecture, Se Cathedral also has historical significance. It was originally constructed to commemorate a victory the Portuguese had over a Muslim army in the year 1510. The church contains fifteen altars dedicated to Our Lady of Three Needs, Our Lady of Hope and Our Lady of Anguish. The Church also contains Corinthian style columns and the Golden Bell, the largest one in Goa.
Tourists may visit the cathedral between 730am and 6 pm.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
A visit to this basilica will add another dimension to your trip to Goa. People from all walks of life visit this church. Every 10 years, St. Francis Xavier who belonged to the Society of Jesus, is honoured here. His mausoleum is still located within the basilica. The mausoleum is a silver casket which contains St. Xavier’s mortal remains. This religious monument took nearly 11 years to complete in 1605 and is located 10km way from Panjim. Visitors to the church are greeted by large ornamental designs on the marble walls and flooring. To learn more about this respected Jesuit, walk through the church and browse the collection of paintings which depict St. Francis Xavier’s life.
Tourists may visit the basilica between the hours of 9am to 630pm.
Church of St. Francis of Assisi
This old church was constructed behind the Se Cathedral in 1661. When you step into this church, you are taken back into time. As visitors walk along, they are greeted by beautiful paintings which depict the life of St. Francis of Assisi. There was once a seminary attached to this church but it has now been converted into an art museum.
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
This church was constructed in 1541 and is one of the oldest in Goa. Located in Panaji, is a statue of Mother Mary which towers at the gate of the church, casting a protective eye. It was built to welcome sailors. Today, this 450-year old church continues to be used by devout Catholics who stop by en route to work, to pray.
Church of St. Catejan
This church was construced by Italian and Greek priests at the start of the 17th Century. It was modelled after the St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and is a stark contrast to the churches built during the Portuguese era.
To experience spiritual tourism, visit some of the beautiful churches of Goa.