Goa is among the most popular vacation spots in India. This beautiful state is frequented not only by Indians but as well by tourists from abroad. It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve been to it or who else might have been there, and Goa remains an eternally popular destination for millions of tourists.
The capital city for parties in India is well-known for its hip clubs, beautiful beaches, and laid-back attitude. However, unlike Goa’s image, Goa has created for itself, this gorgeous location is not just about beaches and partying. There’s more to explore.
When you next go to Goa, and you are there, get away from the usual tourist traps and explore these stunning churches.
Se cathedral
The church is recognized for being one of the biggest churches in Goa. Your Goa trip is incomplete without seeing this beauty because Se Cathedral church is also famous for its stunning design and its geographical location. The church has received the highly sought-after Golden Rose from the Pope in a gesture of respect.
The church was initially built to honour the Portuguese expertise in the Indian areas. The church dates from 1640, and its construction is still solid and beautiful. It is perhaps this that makes it among the top renowned churches in Goa also! Maybe you’d like to include this on those places to go in Goa.
Church of Our lady of the Mount
It is situated on the ‘Monte’ the Church of Our Lady from Mount is located on Mount is among the world’s most well-known oldest Goa church. It is located right next to Se Cathedral.
This church provides stunning perspectives from Mandovi River, Chorao islands, and Old Goa amid the fresh atmosphere of the hills surrounding it. It is also featured in films such as All The Best and Zeher.
Chapel of St. Catherine
Catherine. Simple yet beautiful, the Chapel of St. Catherine is the first church constructed and is a well-known place to visit in Goa.
Portuguese governors laid the foundation stone of the church to honour the saintly. It’s amusing to observe how simple interiors can inspire visitors to be amazed.
Rectangular windows complement the beautiful interiors.
The historic structure has been in existence since the time during the time that the Portuguese began to rule Goa. The stone slabs’ inscriptions are remarkable proof of the long-standing history of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
The church is situated within Old Goa; this is one of the oldest churches in the state. It is frequented by many people to be awed and get an image of the body that belonged to St. Francis Xavier, which is buried in the mausoleum at the highest point.
Inside the casket is the saint’s body, which has been amazingly preserved and in good condition for more than 400 years.
The Catholic church is designated as a UNESCO heritage site and is home to Baroque architectural style. Enjoy peace and peace in the opulent altar.
Church of St. Cajetan
Another well-known Church that is located in North Goa is the Church of St. Cajetan. The church is dedicated to St. Cajetan and Our Lady of Providence and was designed by Italian architects Carlo Ferrarini and Francesco Maria Milazzo.
The church is inspired by a design found in St. Peter’s Basilica within the Vatican City. The church is a striking reminder of the Portuguese rule over Goa. Its stunning Corinthian design and baroque-inspired interiors have created St. Cajetan, one of Goa’s most frequented and sought-after churches.
Mae De Deus Church
The church located in Goa is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Neo-Gothic style architecture. It is home to the mystical Statue of Mae de Deus (Mother of God) that was rescued from the ruin that was the former convent Mae de Deus at Old Goa.
The first Sunday in May is known as the church feast, which celebrates Our Lady of the Holy Trinity, Mother of God, which is the ideal occasion to attend the festivities.
Our Lady of Pilar
The appearance of Our Lady of Pilar is a well-known custom, and the church is devoted to this conviction. According to a Spanish tradition, Our Lady of Pilar was the name given to the apparition of the Virgin Mary that appeared before St. James the Apostle when he was praying along in the river Ebro in Saragossa.
Mary is often seen carrying the child Jesus with her and resting over a pillar; she was named Our Lady of Pilar. The church is located in Velha; the church is referred to as the Seraulim Church’ locally in Goa.
Church of Lady Rosary
Church of Lady Rosary is the oldest among churches in the Old Goa churches and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church’s holy site for worship has the appearance of a fortress when viewed from the outside. According to stories, St Francis Xavier delivered his first sermon here during his journey to Goa.
The church is simply built in a Manueline style, with a hint of Gothic. Two impressive chapels decorate the church. There are several altars in the building, and the main altar is dedicated in honour of the Holy Mother. The church also is where you can find the tombstone from Garcia de Sa, Goa’s first governor.
