Churches in Goa

Better known as the Jewel of India, the smallest state of the country, Goa is studded with a huge number of churches. These churches of Goa are silent yet powerful witnesses to the passionate religious history of the land.

An extravagant bequest of Portuguese colonization, the churches in Goa have gradually become synonymous with the land. Closely interwoven in the social, religious and cultural flavors of the land, most of these churches stand on the sites of former temples. It was the inquisition drive of the Portuguese in Goa that brought about a massive destruction of the temples to force Christianity over the contemporary natives of the region. It was during this time only that a number of churches were erected on the confiscated lands of the temples. As a result, a significant population of Goans comprises of Christians at present.

Built during 16th to 17th century AD, the churches in old Goa are made of laterite and lime plaster. , the churches built. A rare blend of renaissance and ornate styles, these masterpieces of architecture include Se' Cathedral Church, Convent of St. Francis of Asisi, Chapel of St. Catherine, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of lady of Rosary and the Church of St. Augustine.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most visited and famous churches of Goa. Having the best of designs and styles, the church houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Built in 1605 the church has now been declared a World Heritage Monument. Saint Francis is believed to have possessed astonishing healing powers which were experienced by the erstwhile Nizam of Hyderabad too during the 1878 exposition.

Another example of Renessaince architecture is found in the form of Se' Cathedral church. The Tuscan exterior, Corinthian columns, raised platform with steps leading to the entrance and barrel -vault structures of the church make it a distinct marvel at Goa. With floral paintings fixed between the panels executed on wooden borders and awesome stone sculptures of Mother Mary and Jesus, these churches attract a lot of tourists by every year. No fee is charged to enter these churches that remain open on all weekdays from sunrise to sunset.