Se Cathedral Church

Fast Facts
Location : Old Goa,10 kms away from Panaji
Year of Construction : 1562-1619
Style of Architecture : Manueline with Corinthian
Timings : Open from 7.30 am to 6.30 pm, all weekdays, except during mass.

About the Church
What attracts you most just opposite the Basilica de Bom Jesus, is of course the majestic Se Cathedral Church. The largest church in Asia, Se Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria. Considered one of the most sacred buildings for the Christians, the Se Cathedral has been designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is true, that even today in terms of its size, no church in Portugal can surpass the Se Cathedral church.

The history says that Portuguese Naval General Alfondso de Albuquerque, conquered Goa on St. Catherine's day, November 25. The fleet of Alfondso de Albuquerque, was accompanied by the Dominicans, who were the first missionaries sent by the Portuguese to India. The Portuguese government instructed the Viceroy Redondo (1561-64), to built "a grandiose church worthy of the wealth, power and fame of the Portuguese." As such, the Portuguese engineer Julio Simao and Ambrosio Argueiro designed the church for Dominicans. Subsequently a church was built which was later raised to the status of cathedral. The church remained under construction for nearly three-fourths of century, from 1562 to 1619. The main body was completed in 1619 while the altars got the final touch in 1652.

Architecture of the Church
Architecturally, built in Portuguese-Gothic style, the Tuscan exterior of the building will mesmerize you at first-sight. Originally the 98-ft high facade was flanked by the two square towers built in the Manueline style. In 1776, the northern tower collapsed, however the southern tower still survives with a Golden bell. Not only its exterior, but also the Corinthian interior will leave you spellbind.

Interior of the Church
As you enter through the main doorway of the church, you will see a pediment supported by lofty Corinthian columns. The pediment contains an inscription in Latin, a part of which says, " in 1562, in the reign of King Dom Sebastiao (1557-1578), this cathedral was ordered to be erected." The two columns which support the choir have two marble basins with the statues of St. Francies Xavier. Just beneath the choir, is an exquisite painting of St. Christopher.

In its interior, you will see lofty pillars dividing the 250-ft long central from the side aisles. As you enter inside the church, to your left are four chapels dedicated to St. Sebastian, Our Lady of Virtues, Our Lady of Life and the Blessed Sacrament. To your right, again there are four chapels dedicated to St. Bernard, the Cross of Miracles, St. Anthony and the Holy Ghost. Of these, the Chapels of the Cross Miracles and Blessed Sacrament are provided with perforated wooden screens, having a high level of filigree.

Of its 15 altars, the main altar is dedicated to St. Catherine, which is adorned with a magnificent crucifix and has carved frames depicting scenes from the life of St. Catherine. Other altars which you will see are dedicated to Our Lady of Hope, Our Lady of Anguish and Our Lady of Three Needs, St. Anna, Our Lady of Doloures and St. Peter.

Se Cathedral Church Tour Packages

	Goa Tour in India (05 Days) Features : Second day of Goa Tour in India is meant for visiting the popular town of Old Goa. One of the most popular Goa Churches, Se Cathedral is also the biggest church in Asia. Goa Tour in India provides you a chance to visit the Se Cathedral Church which is built in Portuguese-Gothic style and will definitely mesmerize you with its exquisite exterior and interior.

	India by Day & Night (31 Days) Features : On day seven, India by Day and Night tour will take you to Goa’s old capital, Old Goa. This trip provides you an excellent opportunity to visit the churches of Old Goa, especially Asia’s biggest church, Se Cathedral. See and appreciate the great work of Portuguese craftsmen.

	Rajasthan Heritage & Goa (22 Days) Features : Rajasthan Heritage and Goa will take you to Old Goa on 17th day of your trip. Visit this town on this tour package, where you will see one of the world's biggest churches, Se Cathedral. Reach the church, pass few hours inside the church and get your mind and soul clean in its tranquil ambience.

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.