10 Most Beautiful Churches In Goa

Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old GoaA UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century Baroque church holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, whose body miraculously resists decay—a major draw for pilgrims every 10 years.Se Cathedral, Old GoaAsia’s largest church by area, Se Cathedral is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. Its “Golden Bell” is famed for its resonance and has survived numerous invasions and natural disasters.Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, PanjimBuilt in 1541, its symmetrical stairways are modelled after Lisbon’s Bom Jesus do Monte. The annual December feast draws thousands and marks the start of Panjim’s Christmas festivities.Church of St. Cajetan, Old GoaInspired by Rome’s St. Peter’s Basilica, this Greek-cross-planned church was built by Italian Theatines in the 17th century and features Corinthian columns and a spectacular central dome.Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Old GoaA fusion of Manueline, Baroque, and Tuscan styles, this church boasts elaborately carved wood altars and frescoes. The adjoining convent houses Goa’s Archaeological Museum—once a Franciscan friary.Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, Old GoaPerched atop Monte Hill, this 16th-century chapel offers panoramic views of Old Goa. Though often overlooked, it comes alive during the annual Monte Music Festival held every February.Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, Old GoaOne of Goa’s oldest churches, built in the 1540s, it reflects late Manueline-Gothic architecture. It was reportedly where Afonso de Albuquerque prayed after capturing Goa from Adil Shah.Mae De Deus Church, SaligaoKnown for its Neo-Gothic spires and glowing white façade, this 19th-century church houses the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus, originally brought from the ruins of the convent of Mae de Deus in Old Goa.Church of St. Anne, TalaulimFamed for its ornate stucco work and unique architectural fusion, locals believe the church’s pregnant-like dome led to its nickname “Santana Church.” It is linked to several Goan folk legends.Church of Our Lady of Merces, ColvaBuilt in 1630, this seaside church is known for its annual Fama festival, where a centuries-old statue of Menino Jesus (Infant Jesus) is paraded through Colva—an event that predates Portuguese rule.10 Of India's Oldest MonumentsRead More