Goa is one of the famous tourist destinations of India, which is located in the western coastal region of India. It is blessed with beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritages, and a charm of colonial artifacts. Goa’s rich culture is highly embracing owing to the presence of the beautiful churches, which are remnants of the Portuguese rule.
This will be a detailed discussion and analysis of the architectural marvels, history, and cultural importance of some of the beautiful churches of Goa that you need to see. Some of these impressive buildings include cathedral-like large structures and simple little chapels, giving us a preview of what the state was or is.
Now it’s time to look at the best spiritual and archaic sites in Goa.
Amazing Churches
Basilica of Bom Jesus: This church is of Baroque architecture and is one of the famous tourist spots in Goa, which has been given the status of a World Heritage Site. They visit the site since they believe that the body of their icon, St. Francis Xavier, a Jesuit missionary, is buried there.
Se Cathedral: Se Cathedral, also known as the Saint Catherine Cathedral located in Old Goa, was constructed in the 16th century and is the largest church in Goa and of Portuguese style of architecture. This has imposing towers with elaborate sculptures and friezes; within it are a great altar, fine chapels, and much painting and picture-like frescoes.
Church of Our Lady of the Mount: This church, built in the 17th century, is located on a hilltop over the Arabian Sea and is a desired destination for pilgrims following the Catholic faith. People still flock to the church for their devotion, in which the church holds a miraculous photo of Our Lady of the Mount, which visitors believe has the powers to heal them.
Church of St. Cajetan: This church, which is aimed at docking the apparition site, is one of the most beautiful examples of Baroque architecture in Goa, which was built in the 17th century. It is an imitation of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and has a rich and beautiful architectural design as well as beautiful frescoes in its interiors.
Mae de Deus Church: This church, which was constructed in the 16th century, is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of tourists in Old Goa and is renowned for the tremendous architectural style as it is for the serenity of the place. The church is constructed in Gothic architectural design and has a tastefully designed altar and stained glass, and there is also a calm and serene courtyard.
Chapel of St. Anthony: This chapel, originally built in the 16th century, is one of the preferred places of worship for followers of St. Anthony and is situated in Panjim. It was designed with aesthetic features and aims at providing a serene environment that people need for prayers, especially with the image of St. Anthony.
Church of Our Lady of Rosary: It is situated in Fatorpa, a small village near Panjim, and this church is of the 16th century. The church has a fine design outside and inside and is considered to be a very quiet and calm place.
Church of St. Francis Assisi: This is a church that is of the 17th century and is placed in Old Goa. It is known for the attractive building, its serene environment, and its very large garden.
Church of Our Lady of Health: Its construction was completed in the 1600s, and it is located in Bandora, a small village near Panjim, Goa. The church has a nicely designed outer structure, a beautifully designed inner ambiance, and a rather calm environment.
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: This is a 17th-century church that stands in Margao, Goa’s second-largest city. It has a wonderfully designed outer look or exterior appearance together with a beautiful interior that decorates the church and creates a calm and serene environment.
Conclusion
Goa’s architecture is dominated by churches that have a rich history, and if you are interested in fancy history or architecture or are just in search of a quiet place, the churches of Goa will not fail to impress you. Therefore, carry your luggage and set off to discover the divine and the magnificent buildings of this beautiful state of India.
