New Delhi: Goa is a destination that is well known for its famous beaches, seafood, dance, music, church, and traditions. So if have missed out on churches in Goa, then it is obvious that you have missed out on its Traditions and values.
Churches are places of worship for Christians, but in Goa, you may find tourists of all religions and cultures, visiting these churches. Some of them are also an excellent combination of art and culture. You can also plan a Goa Carnival festival to experience all these attractions in a single place.
Here are some recommended places you must visit
Se Cathedral
This church is one of the largest in India whilst being amongst the famous churches in Goa too. Being one of the oldest in the country, the Se Cathedral was built to celebrate the victory of the Portuguese ruler Afonso de Albuquerque for capturing a Goan city in 1510. Given that the day when the enemies were vanquished was also the feast of St Catherine, this church was built commemorating her.
Displaying a Portuguese-Manueline architectural style, the church has Tuscan exteriors and Corinthian interiors. Inside the church, there is a large bell called the Golden Bell – which is the largest in the state.
Church of St Francis of Assisi
This church is amongst the revered Roman Catholic churches. Known for its Barque and Corinthian architecture, the church’s interiors are finely inlaid with ornaments. On the tabernacle reside two statues – one of the Christ and the other of St. Francis of Assisi. Inside the church, the gilded interiors are beautifully decorated. There are numerous paintings depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi. The carved woodwork and frescos are also exquisitely done.
This is the only church in Goa with a museum containing artifacts, sculptures, and paintings. This is one amongst churches in Goa that has items which are a testimony to a rich and thriving culture that thrived in this land several centuries ago.
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
This is one of the oldest and most famous churches in Goa. The 17th-century structure is in the heart of Panjim – the capital of Goa. The church has a simple and elegant exterior. The interiors are tidy and well-maintained. There are two altars within – one dedicated to Our Lady of Rosary and the other to St. Peter. The Xavier’s Chapel is within the church and is an added attraction. Thousands of devotees visit this church on the day of the feast. This church is of religious and historical significance. It is a landmark structure in the capital city. Visiting this place is one of the best thing to do in Goa.
Church of St. Cajetan
Considered to be amongst the most beautiful churches in Goa, the Church of St. Cajetan resembles the St. Peter’s Church in Rome. Built with laterite blocks, the church has influences of the Corinthian style of architecture. The tower is rectangular and the interiors are divided into different sections.
Each section has several aisles and flanking them are massive pillars. The wooden pulpit is decorated beautifully and the main altar is dedicated to the Holy Mother. There are numerous pictographic and sculptural depictions of the holy family. Some elements of the interior architecture are crafted in the Baroque style. All of this culminates into a visually stunning church.