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Top 10 Famous Churches in Goa

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Goa renowned as a tourist destination for its beautiful beaches and palm trees is also one of the places where a plethora of exquisite churches are situated aligned with the 15th-century sophisticated architectural creativity of Portuguese combined with the skilled efforts of Indian workers. If you are in Goa and seeking the blessings of the Holy shrine then you must visit these churches we have shortlisted for you.

List of Top 10 Famous Churches in Goa

1. Se Cathedral

Se Cathedral

Located in Velha Goa, Se Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Asia and one of the famous churches in Goa which took nearly 80 years to get constructed. It was built to celebrate the Portuguese ruler Afonso de Albuquerque for capturing a Goan city in 1510 and this church was also built commemorating St. Catherine. It has an amazing Portuguese-Manueline architecture style. One of the finest things about this church is the Golden bell present inside the church which is considered one of the largest in the state. If you are on a visit and looking for a beautiful and pleasant church then Se Cathedral is your go-to option.

2. Bom Jesus Basilica

Located in Old Goa, the second most famous Church in Goa is Bom Jesus Basilica. Being a UNESCO heritage site, this church is highly known to host the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. This church is considered to be among the finest representations of Baroque Architecture. An interesting thing about this church is that visitors and tourists visit this place to witness the miracle of extremely well preserved St. Mortal’s Remains. The best time to visit this church is during weekdays from 9 AM – 6.30 PM and on Sunday from 10.30 AM – 6.30 PM.

3. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Panjim

Located in Ella, Goa, the Church of Our Lady situated on the hilltop is one of the most famous and one of the oldest churches in Goa. Right before Se Cathedral, this church offers mesmerizing views of Mandovi River, Chorao Islands, and Old Goa amidst the fresh ambiance of surrounding hills. The church has a simple and elegant exterior. Thousands of visitors and tourists visit this church on the day of the feast. Church of Our Lady is of religious and historical significance.

4. Church of St. Cajetan

St. Cajetan is yet another church that is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Goa. This Church is believed to resemble the St. Peter’s Church in Rome. It is familiar to the Corinthian style of architecture that is built with Laterite rocks. The tower is rectangular and the interiors are divided into different sections. Inside this church, there are numerous pictographic and cultural depictions of the Holy Family. Some elements of the interior architecture are crafted in the Baroque style and all these together make it one of the most stunning churches in Goa. 

5. Chapel of St. Catherine

Located in Velha Goa, St, Catherine is a Christian ecclesiastical church and the first one of its kind to be built in Goa. This church was built by the Portuguese Governor in 1510. The Chapel is simplistic in its interior design. This churches’ history dates back to the time when the Portuguese started to rule Goa. To prove this, there is an inscription on the stone slab in the church premises which sums up this fact. Having existed since the glorious years of reclamation and conquest, it is considered one of the most historically significant churches in Goa.

6. Church of Lady of Rosary

Located to the West of Basilica of Bom Jesus, this is yet another famous church in Goa that is often visited by the locals, devotees, and tourists. Built of laterite and lime mortar, there are two chapels and altars inside this church. The main altar is built in commemoration of the Holy Mother. One can identify and find this church similar to that of Fortress Church. This is because of the windows adjoining the roof and the round-shaped towers. The best time to visit this church is during the mornings from 9.30 AM to 5.30 in the evening.

7. Monte Hill

Another popular church located to the South East of Sat Burzam Ghor. Situated on the Top Hill, this church is a simple and white elegant washed structure that commands the place amongst the churches of Goa for its exotic location. The church is open on all days of the week except on Sundays.

8. St. Alex Church

The St. Alex Church is a local church built by local village communities in 1741. Located in Curtorium, South Goa, this is yet another famous church in Goa. The Grotto in the churchyard dedicated to Our Lady is the first such grotto amongst all churches in Goa. The main attraction of the church is its dome and two towers. The dome is flanked by seven altars. A large number of feasts take place at this church such as St. Alex, Feast of our lady of Lourdes, and feast of our lady of immaculate conception. An interesting thing about this church is that it was built on the site of a Hindu Temple, called the Ravalnath and it is said that the remains of this temple can be still seen. The church is open on all days of the week.

9. Church of St. Francis of Assisi

located in North Goa, Velha Goa, This church is amongst the revered Roman Catholic Churches. Renowned for its Barque and Corinthian architecture, the church’s interiors are finely built with ornaments. Whereas on the tabernacle resides two statues one of Christ and the other of St. Francis of Assisi. This is one of the churches in Goa that has items that are a testimony to the rich and thriving culture that was present in this land centuries ago.

10. NossaSenhora de Penha de Franca

Another awesome church in Goa is NossaSenhora de Penha de Franca located in Panjim Goa. This church is built in commemoration of Saint Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca who is believed to have averted a possible danger for Portuguese sailors on their voyage to India. 

11. Church of Our Lady of Miracles

This church was initially started as a military chapel and is one of the most popular churches in Goa. Built by the Portuguese government, this church was indeed once collapsed before being rebuilt. By 1997, the old church was completely demolished and in place, a new church was erected. Miraculous healings have been experienced at this church and are generally visited by people of all religions and communities.

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