Top churches to visit in Goa

Goa, well- renowned for its vast stretches of sun kissed beaches, coco palm plantations and happening night life is also dotted with array of churches. Goa churches reflect the archaic essence of the Christianity in the state. A large number of tourists from all over the world throng to this magnificent destination to visit the attractive churches. Once you come down to this brilliant state you can hear an echo of the sonorous ringing of the church bells. These churches are regarded as the top tourist sites of Goa, which certainly shouldn’t be missed.  Se Cathedral (1619) – It is the largest church in India built to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese over the Muslim emperors in Goa, in 1510. It took almost 80 years to complete and is dedicated to St of Alexandria Catherine having its profound association with Christianity. However, it is considered as one of the most prominent attraction of Portuguese Manueline architecture .This Church has 15 altars carved intricately dedicated to Our Lady of Hope, Our Lady of Anguish & Our Lady of Three Needs with several old paintings on either side. The huge columns designed in Corinthian style stretches to the meet the sky-high ceiling inside the church and the Golden Bell, that is regarded as the largest in Goa, impresses its visitors. Bom Jesus Basilica (1605) – It is one of most famous churches in Goa church, constructed in 1604 AD to pay homage to patron Saint- Bom Jesus. Its incredible 3-tier structure combination of Doric, Corinthian style and Composite patterns is what makes it appealing it to locals and tourists. The art gallery inside the church and the beautiful decors is definitely breath – taking. A silver casket designed in the 17th Century holds the remains of this Saint. Thus, it is one of the most serene places that you must visit in Goa. From the architecture, to the gold polished walls inside, it’s an amazing structure with a great history behind. Mass gather in the basilica in Konkani at timings – 7am, 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday, at 8am and 9.15am to 10.15am on Sunday. However, confession is held daily in the sacristy from 5pm to 6pm. Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim – Built around 450 years ago, it is one of the oldest Churches in Goa located at the centre of the Capital City, Panaji. This church was mainly built to welcome sailors home and is beautifully preserved till date. The Church has a statue of Mother Mary at the front that towers over the City, casting a watchful eye over its inhabitants. The interior designing of the church specially the backdrop to the main altar is deeply carved, ornamented and is dedicated to Jesus Crucified and Our Lady of the Rosary. The glass-encased statue of Chapel of St. Francis Xavier is in the south transept to the right of the main altar occupying the centre of the reredos is a fine example of the period. Church of St. Catejan – This church is very much similar to the St. Peters Basilica in Rome and built by a few Greek and Italian priests in 17th Century. Despite being built in the Portuguese era over 300 years ago, this masterpiece is well – preserved till today. Originally called The Church of Our Lady of Divine Providence, it is much different from the churches that were built at some point in the Portuguese era.