Goa is not only famous for its fun-loving atmosphere, beaches and vibrant nightlife but it is also famous among its tourists who are interested to know about its history and rich architecture.
The churches of goa is a must visit place, some people visit the religious places (churches) for spirituality and others just love to explore these sites. You must visit these churches while on the vacation to this party land
CHURCH OF OUR LADY IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
The church is one of the oldest and popular church in goa. The elegant appeal of white and blue colours in the church with Baroque style architecture gives this church a mysteriously attractive and fascinating vibes.
An excellent struture standing proudly on the church square Panaji, and can be spotted by the colourful buildings showing portugee roots on the land of beaches. The structure has a massive zig-zag staircase reaching to the prayer hall, along with the second largest bell hanging on the top and the top area forms a beautiful crown on the head of the church, which is also called the crown of Panaji.
On the streets , you can do shooping , you can buy souvenirs and try goan cuisines and street food. To experience the beautiful vibes and to capture the beauty and simplicity of goa you must visit this church.
BASILICA OF BOM JESUS
Old goa has a unique way to captivate your attention as most of the churches and convents of goa hold a special place in the history of goa , and are located in Old Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of them.
Construted late back in 15th century , the church has been crafted with precious stones, and is the most visited place by the tourists. One of the oldest church of Goa which beautifuly defines the Baroque and Portugese architecture in India. This place consists of a coffin, which contains the remains of St.Francis Xavier and that is displayed to the tourists.
The church also had an Art gallery which showcases the art work of Dom Martin, a Goan painter. The murals inside the church are the examples of great artworks. It also has a sweet spot in UNESCO World Heritage site list in India.
SE CATHEDRAL
Also called SE CATHERINE’S CATHEDRAL, this 16th century built masterpiece took 80 years to complete and is one of the largest churches in the World. The Grandeur of church is unique that makes it look very beautiful.
It was built by the Roman Catholics in the rule of Portugese. It is known as the largest church in Asia, and also has a gaint bell and elegant architecture. SE Cathedral has a historic “Golden Bell” whivh is the largest bell with a rich sound. This church has also been stated in the UNESCO world heritage list.
CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF THE MOUNT
It is the most beautiful, old and famous churches in Goa. With simple exterior and lavish interior and historical significance , this is a hidden gem which is located in Velha Goa. The church is situated as it is atop the Monte near the St. Cajetan church, which gives an outstanding view of the Mandovi river and the island of devar.
The church has 3 altars. The main altar has the lady of the mount in the center holding the child jesus. There is the festival named Monte Music festival organised by the Fundacao Oriente with the collaboration with the Kala academy, this festival aims to integrate western and indian forms of Classical music, held in Feburary every year. This church as been used for shooting also many times.
MAE DE DEUS CHURCH
Mae De Deus Church is a breath-taking site and one of the stunning church in Goa that is designed in a very graceful mannar. Its great whitewashed walls and pinnacles and Gothlic spires will definitely reminds of the castles fron Disneyland.
Situated among the picturesque surrounding of the typical goan countryside, was built in 1873, and the finest example of Neo- Gothic architecture in Goa. The church look more ravishing in night as the lights illuminate over it. The church is dedicated to the mother of God, and the statue of Mae De Deus is there in the church courtyard.
The first Sunday of May is celebrated as the Church feast. Many groups of people and kids as well , the got dressed up and perform dances and pay homage and offerings to Our Lady, the mother of God , and the celebration continues by dancing, perfoming small skit, plays and music by the people.
CHURCH OF ST. CAJETAN
Located very close to the Se Cathedral church, this is one of the most beautiful church and considered as one of the galorious monuments of the Goa. The Church is dedicated to Our lady of Divine Providence.
Four statues of St. Peter, St. Paul, St. John and St. Matthew are there in the church. “Domus mea, domus oration/s, which means “ My house is a house of Prayer, is embrioded on he portal. There are eight columns and the main altar is dedicated to Our lady of Divine Providence.
Beautiful beaches and bountiful greenery is the highlight of Goa. But, Goa is also thronged with tropical trees and charming churches. These are the most famous and beautiful churches in Goa that are must visit places.
One who want to explore the religious sites and are wanted to see religious architecture then they should definitely visit these churches.