Ten most famous churches in goa
Ten most famous churches in goa.Goa, nestled aside along India’s stunning coastline, invites tourists with its sun-kissed beaches, lively culture, and historical richness. The churches of Goa are calm havens among the vibrant atmosphere, each with a unique story to tell. Experience an online journey with us as we explore the spiritual gems and architectural marvels of some of the most famous churches in Goa.
These churches engage thousands of visitors annually and are not just places of worship also have significant historical and cultural monuments. We’ll talk about the background, style, and importance of some of Goa’s most well-known churches in this post.
1.Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa:
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is located in Old Goa, which was the former capital of Portuguese India. Old Goa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s known for its numerous churches and historical structures.
The basilica is an excellent example of Baroque architecture, known for its ornate and intricate detailing. The facade of the church is relatively simple compared to the elaborate interior.
St. Francis Xavier, a Spanish Jesuit missionary, is most known for having his mortal remains housed at the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Every 10 years at the Exposition, the body of St. Francis Xavier is on exhibit in a silver coffin for public viewing.
2. Se Cathedral:
The Se Cathedral is located in Old Goa, which was the former capital of Portuguese India and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The construction of the Se Cathedral began in 1562 and was completed in 1619. It is one of the largest churches in Asia and is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria.
The Feast of St. Catherine is celebrated annually on November 25th at the Se Cathedral. The celebration includes religious processions, Mass, and cultural events. The cathedral houses the Cross of Miracles, which is believed to be a fragment of a cross that stood in Old Goa and is associated with a miraculous event in the 17th century. Stay tuned with us to online journey ten most famous churches in goa.
3. Church of St. Francis of Assisi:
Established in 1661 by Franciscan Friars, this church features a unique combination of Baroque, Tuscan, and Corinthian architecture. Its elaborate interiors and exquisitely plated altars with rich stone decorations make this church one of the most well-known in Goa in terms of construction.
This cathedral is well-known for having a museum with paintings, sculptures, and other artefacts that offer an insight into Goa’s history and culture in addition to holding a convent.
4.The Mae De Deus Church:
The Mae De Deus Church is a beautiful and historic church located in Saligao, a village in North Goa, India. The church is dedicated to Mae De Deus, which translates to “Mother of God” in Portuguese.
The construction of Mae De Deus Church began in 1867 and was completed in 1873. The church is an excellent example of Neo-Gothic architecture, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. Over the years, the Mae De Deus Church has undergone restoration efforts to preserve its architectural and historical significance
5. St. Alex Church:
St. Alex church is dedicated to Saint Alex. One of the prominent ones is the Church of St. Alex located in Calangute. This church is a landmark in the Calangute area and serves as a place of worship for the local Christian community.
The church is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. The church is most beautiful in ten most famous churches in goa. The church has seven altars among which three are in the centre and other four on the sides. The main altar is dedicated to St. Alex which is just below the huge crown backed by a beautiful gilded reredos with the statues of angels and other Christian saints.
6. Three Kings Church:
The Three Kings Church, also called the Church of St. Lawrence, is situated in the Indian state of Goa’s Cansaulim settlement. The church, which honours St. Lawrence, is perched on a hill and offers sweeping views of the surroundings, including the Arabian Sea.
Three Portuguese monarchs reportedly stopped here on their journey to see the baby Jesus, according to local mythology. The Three Kings Church gets its name from the legend that it was constructed to honour this occasion.
7. Church of St. Anne:
The Church of St. Anne is situated in Talaulim, a village in the islands region of Goa. It is about 7 kilometres east of the capital city, Panaji.
The church honours St. Anne, who is conventionally acknowledged as Jesus Christ’s grandmother and the mother of the Virgin Mary. Being a protector of mothers and grandparents, St. Anne is frequently worshipped.
The feast is celebrated in late July, and it includes religious ceremonies, processions, cultural events, and festivities.
8. Church of St. Cajetan:
The Church of St. Cajetan is situated in Old Goa, which was the former capital of Portuguese India. Old Goa is known for its rich concentration of historic churches and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Italian Catholic priest and co-founder of the Theatines, St. Cajetan, is honoured at the church. Saint Cajetan was well-known for his attempts to reform the priesthood and for his devotion.
The church’s interior is spacious and decorated with altars honouring several saints. One of the main altar’s characteristics is a big statue of Our Lady of Divine Providence, dedicated to the Holy Mother.
9. St. Augustine tower:
The St. Augustine Tower is the remnant of the Church of St. Augustine, located in Old Goa, India. Augustinian friars built the St. Augustine Church in 1602. At the time, it was one of the biggest churches in Goa, with eight altars, four chapels, and a monastery.
The four-story tower that is still intact is referred to as the St. Augustine Tower and is a well-known landmark in Old Goa. The tower’s four huge bells are the reason it’s commonly referred to as a “bell tower”.
10. Our lady of the Mount:
Our Lady of the Mount is located in the village of Ella, which is near Old Goa. It is situated atop a hillock, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The church is devoted to the Virgin Mary. In Catholicism, the Virgin Mary is revered widely and is considered an important figure.
The Feast is celebrated annually. The feast attracts a large number of devotees and visitors. It usually involves religious ceremonies, processions, and cultural events. You guys can also read my other blog Top 10 famous places in USA.
