9 Popular Churches That You Must Visit in Goa (2024)
Want to witness Goa’s trysts with legacy? Despite being popularly known as the party capital, Goa is home to architectural masterpieces. The spell-binding churches here take you back to the 15th century and lets you explore Portuguese creativity. Experience structural excellence at these churches during your visit to the tropical heaven i.e. Goa.
9 Popular Churches That You Must Visit in Goa
1. Bom Jesus Basilica: Located on Old Goa road, Bom Jesus Basilica is one of the most frequently visited churches in Goa. This UNESCO heritage site was built in 1594 and is home to the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Being a Jesuit church, this church in Goa adorns itself with Baroque architecture. This church furthermore embellishes itself with surreal works done by impressionist painter Dom Martin. Surrounded with lush greenery, the gorgeous courtyards here unravel the opportunity for you to reinvigorate your soul.
Location: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa
Timings: 9 AM to 6:30 PM (Monday to Saturday) and 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM (Sunday)
2. Se Cathedral: Known for its magnificent architecture, Se Cathedral is one of the most popular churches in Goa. Located in Velha, this church adorns itself in Portuguese-Manueline architecture. This cathedral stands as an emblem of the victory of a Goan city by Afonso de Albuquerque. Besides celebrating the victory, the cathedral commemorates the feast of St. Catherine as well. Besides being home to the famous Golden Ball, this cathedral received the benediction of the Pope too. Adorning itself with Tuscan exteriors and Corinthian interiors, this cathedral is a must-visit during your Goa trip.
Location: Velha, Goa
Timings: 7:30 AM to 6 PM (Monday to Saturday) and 7:30 AM to 4 PM (Sunday)
3. Church of St Francis of Assisi: Known for being one of the most revered Roman Catholic churches in Goa, Church of St Francis of Assisi adorns itself with Barque and Corinthian architecture. You will find two statues of St. Francis of Assisi and the Christ here. What further adds to the beauty of the church are the paintings that depict the life of St. Francis of Assisi. Moreover, this is the only church in Goa that is home to paintings, artifacts, and sculptures at the same time. Standing as a testimony to a rich culture, this church attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Location: Velha, Goa
Timings: 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM (Except Sundays)
4. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: Located in Panaji, Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is known for being one of the oldest churches in Goa. This 17th-century structure is known for adorning itself with an elegant interior. It is also home to two altars which are dedicated to Our Lady of Rosary and St. Peter respectively. Being of religious and historical significance, this church is visited by thousands of devotees every year. You will also find Xavier’s Chapel here.
Location: Rua EmÃdio Garcia, Altinho, Panaji, Goa
Timings: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM (Open All Days)
5. Church of St. Cajetan: Being one of the most beautiful churches, the Church of St. Cajetan in Rome is built after the St. Peter’s Church in Rome. Adorning itself with Corinthian architectural style, this church is constructed with laterite blocks. What further adds to the beauty of the church are the wooden pulpit and the aesthetically pleasing altar. The pictorial depictions here take you through the life of the Holy Mother.
Photo By Joegoauk Oldgoa Image Source
Location: Velha, Goa
Timings: 9 AM to Noon and 4 PM to 7 PM (Open All Days)
6. Chapel of St. Catherine: Located in North Goa, the Chapel of St. Catherine is Christian ecclesiastical. Built by the Portuguese Governor in 1510, this church is known for its elegance. Dedicated to commemorate St. Catherine, this church was modified multiple times before being finally constructed in 1952. The interior here adorns itself with rectangular windows and a simplistic interior. During your visit here, don’t miss the stone inscription here which tells you about the history of the church.
Location: Velha, Goa
Timings: N/A
7. Chapel of St. Francis Xavier: Located in Old Goa road, the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier is one of the most popular churches that you must visit during your stay in Goa. Adorning itself with Baroque architecture, this church is home to the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier who was involved with missionary works during the time when the Portuguese ruled the state. This UNESCO world heritage site attracts thousands of visitors every year from home and abroad.
Location: Ella, Goa
Timings: 9 AM to 6:30 PM (Open All Day)
8. St. Alex Church: Loathed in Curtorim, St. Alex Church is dedicated to Our Lady and was constructed by the local village community members back in 1741. The Grotto at this church is the first of its kind among all churches that you will find in Goa. Adorning itself with seven altars, this church organizes a number of popular feasts including Feast of St. Alex, Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, and Feast of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception. Constructed on the site of a Hindu temple named Ravalnath, this temple remains open throughout the week.
Location: Curtorim, Goa
Timings: 9 AM to 8:30 PM (Open All Days)
9. Church of Our Lady of Miracles: After being built as a military chapel, Church of Our Lady of Miracles was completely demolished before being rebuilt in 1977. Known for offering miraculous healing, this church attracts thousands of devotees every year on the occasion of the Holy Feast. Depicting the rich cultural heritage of the state, this church must be visited during the praise and worship program on Fridays,
Location: Sanguem Road, Sanguem, Goa
Timings: 7 AM to 10 PM and 4 PM to 11 PM (Open All Days)
Shall you desire to witness structural excellence during your stay in Goa, you must visit these churches that were mostly built during the rulership of the Portuguese.
Adorning themselves with stunning architectural designs, these churches are the best place to experience the rich cultural heritage of the state. Take yourself to any of these best churches to visit in Goa to make your trip even more memorable.
