Churches of Goa

For those of you who thought that Goa is only famous for its serene beaches, here's something different. Goa is also known for its magnificent churches which were built by the Portuguese in the 17th and 18th century.

The Portuguese arrived in Goa, with the dual intention of controlling the spice route from the east and propagating Christianity. Initially, the churches built by them played a major role in attracting people towards Christianity but today, with a significant Christian population, these churches are playing an important role in Goa's religious, cultural and social framework.

Old Goa, a strong religious and political centre during the Portuguese rule, is home to some of most famous, richest and most ornate churches. You can visit the massive Portuguese-Gothic Cathedral of St. Catherine da Se or the Se Cathedral that was commissioned far back in 1564. The largest church in India, Se Cathedral has 14 altars, an 80 metre long aisle and 5 bells. Across Old Goa's main square is yet another significant church, the Basilica de Bom Jesus which you should not miss out at any cost. The Jesuit church is famous throughout the Catholic world as it houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, Goa's patron saint.

Goan churches are also known for their excellent architecture, which is an interesting blend of two or more architectural styles. The architects responsible for the construction of the Goan churches were inspired by the Italian architects as such imitations of the Roman churches which had a touch of the Renaissance with Baroque interior, sprang up. Over the years, a significant change has been witnessed in the architecture of the churches, however, the Goan churches built during the Portuguese rule are still noted for their unique architectural features.

So, do make it a point to visit the magnificent churches during your trip to the wonderful land of Goa this time.

Most popular churches of Goa include:

Goa Churches Tour Packages

	Goa Tour in India (05 Days) Features : Explore the churches of Old Goa during the five day Goa Tour in India Package. These churches – Basilica de Bom Jesus, Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi, Church of Lady Rosary and Se Cathedral – were built several years ago by Portuguese rulers and hence introduce you to the heritage of the state.

India by Day & Night (31 Days) Features : India by Day and Night tour takes you to Goa’s important town, Old Goa on seventh day of your trip. Here, you will visit a number of world famous churches that are not only revered for their religious significance but are also known for their impressive architecture. Some of the popular churches that you can visit on this tour are the Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi, Basilica de Bom Jesus, Church of Lady Rosary and Se Cathedral.

Rajasthan Heritage & Goa (22 Days) Features : Day 17 of Rajasthan Heritage and Goa tour is meant for visiting the town of Old Goa. While you visit Old Goa on this tour, you get a good chance to see a number of beautiful churches, built several years ago by Portuguese rulers. Rajasthan Heritage and Goa will take you to the famous churches of Old Goa namely - Basilica de Bom Jesus, Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi, Church of Lady Rosary and Se Cathedral.

Best of South India (13 Days) Features : Churches are one of the main attractions of Goa, which attract large number of tourists visiting the state. Old Goa, the old hub of Portuguese empire, is home to around a dozen cathedrals and churches such as Se Cathedral church, Basilica De Bom Jesus, Church of Lady Rosary and Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi. On Best of South India Tour, you may visit these popular churches of Goa.