When we think of Goa the first thing that pops up in our head are the flamboyant beaches, getting tanned in the sun, sipping on some booze and eating fresh seafood. Not many of us are aware of the historical significance Goa has had since the Portuguese era. The churches of Old Goa have been standing firm since decades, answering prayers of devotees. We have remembered some these timeless beauties below.
It has been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The basilica holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier and is visited by devotees every year. The interiors of this place are sort of rustic from the outside but magnificent from the inside.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Picture credits: www.vacances-en-inde.com |
It is one of the most ancient and celebrated religious destinations of Goa. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. It has a Portuguese-Manueline style of architecture. its exteriors are Tuscan while interiors are Corinthian. The church is 250 ft high and has a large bell known as the “Golden Bell”.
Se’ Cathedral
Picture credits: Danny Burke / Wikipedia |
It stands on the Holy Hill or Monte Santo and is the most sorrowful memorial since there’s hardly anything left of it. All that it has today is the 46 m high tower. The church was built in 1602 by Augustinian friars.
Church of St. Augustine
Picture credits: whc.unesco.org |
Standing to the north east of Se Cathedral it is a gigantic beautiful church. The building is built of laterite blocks which are lime plastered. The alter has rich carvings which are simply commendable for the skill that went into its making. The church was originally designed to similar to the Basilica of St.Peter in Rome.
Chapel of St. Cajetan
Picture credits: www.guidelet.com |
It is located to the west of Se Cathedral and is the former palace of the Archbishop. It has 3 chapels on either of its side. The main alter here has Corinthian features. The walls are a piece of attraction with their intricate floral designs.
Church and Convent of St. Francis Assisi
Picture credits: indiaadvices.com |
It is the first ever Christian structure to be built in Goa. Small yet elegant is what defines this place. Very few people take note of the immense historical significance of this chapel. The look of the chapel is very simple with brown and white interiors.
Chapel of St. Catherine
Picture credits: travelaspire.com |
The church is known for the fact that St Francis Xavier gave his first sermon here upon his arrival in Goa. It has been beautifully restored. The church gives excellent views of the Mandovi River and Divar Island but unfortunately it is frequently locked.
Church of Lady of Rosary
Picture credits: www.indiatourism4u.in |
The churches of Old Goa are the forgotten ones which need to be maintained as heritage, we have received from our ancestors. Free Press Journal requests its readers to take a step and stop these historical places from being demolished.
If you have any of your travel experiences to share, send them to us at webeditor@fpj.co.in
