If the gorgeous beaches will bring out the wanderlust in you, then the churches will touch you with their sacred aura. The famous church in Goa is a wondrous heritage, which the Portuguese rulers have left behind, for us to admire.
Grand in design, superlative in architecture, and paramount in religion, these churches are not just a religious place of worship for Christians, but architectural marvels in their own right.
Some of them have even found a place in the UNESCO Heritage sites of Goa. The list of churches in Goa contains some sparkling gems, both for devotees and for history buffs.
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21 Excitingly Famous Church in Goa to Visit
Churches in North Goa
1. Basilica of Bom Jesus
By far, the most famous church in Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus is a marvel of baroque architecture. This 16th-century church is a UNESCO Heritage site and contains the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, the famous Jesuit saint.
The church is dedicated to Infant Jesus and has several paintings, marble gilded altars, marble flooring inlaid with precious stones.
- Location: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa 403402
- When was it built: 1605
- Places to Visit : Hotels near Basilica of Bom Jesus Church Goa
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2. Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
Situated in Panaji, this church is among the oldest church in Goa. It has an elegant outer structure, with a double flight of symmetrical stairs. A fine example of Baroque architecture, this church also has the second largest bell in Goa.
Thousands gather here on the day of the feast that falls on 8th December, when the whole church is decorated with colourful lights and large fairs are held to celebrate the occasion.
- Location: Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403521
- When was it built: 1609
3. Se Cathedral
Se Cathedral is among the largest of all churches in Goa, and also the most beautiful. It has a magnificent architecture and has great religious importance. The church was built to glorify the Portuguese rule over India.
The church is dedicated to St. Catherine and has the Great Golden Bell. The church has received the ‘Golden Rose’ from the Pope, as a mark of reverence.
- Location: Velha, Goa 403402
- When was it built: 1640
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4. Church of Our Lady of the Mount
The Portuguese general, Afonso de Albuquerque, ordered the construction of this church in the year 1510. It is among the oldest chapels in Goa and is popular for its Monte Music Festival, a four-day celebration of Indian and Western Music performances by reputed and up-coming musicians.
The church is built on a hill and gives stunning views of Mandovi River and Divar Island, located nearby.
- Location: Ella, Goa 403110
- When was it built: 1510
5. Church of St. Cajetan
Another famous church of North Goa is the Church of St. Cajetan. Very close to Se Cathedral, this church is a most beautiful monument, said to be modelled in the lines of St. Peter’s Basilica, in the Vatican City.
The church is an impressive remnant of the Portuguese reign over Goa. Its magnificent Corinthian architecture and impressive baroque interiors have made this among the most visited churches in Goa.
- Location: Velha Goa, Goa 403402
- When was it built: 1661
Also Read: 20 Perfect Things to Do in North Goa
6. Mae De Deus Church
This church is among the best churches to see in North Goa. It has a breathtaking gothic architecture and has ornate interiors.
Its magnificent structure, with numerous spires, gilded altars and ornate interiors reminds us of a medieval castle and its white exterior dazzles in daylight. In the evenings though, the church is illuminated with lighting, making it a marvellous sight to behold.
- Location: Chogm Rd, Saligao, Goa, 403511
- When was it built: 1873
7. Church of St Francis of Assisi
The unique blend of Tuscan, Baroque and Corinthian architecture is what makes this church unique in structure and also one of the most famous churches in Goa. Its artistically gilded altars, with inlay of precious stones, and ornate interiors, making it among the most spectacular churches.
Another unique thing about this church is that it has its own museum displaying paintings, sculptures, and artefacts.
- Location: Off National Highway 4, Velha Goa, Goa 403110
- When was it built: 1661
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8. St. Diogo’s Church
Among the most magnificent of churches in North Goa, St. Diogo’s Church is built in Roman style architecture. The church has 3 bells and 3 entrances. The annual feast held in the church is a festive occasion which is enjoyed with great religious fervour.
- Location: Guirim, Goa 403507
- When was it built: 1604
9. Santa Cruz Church
Also called as Holy Cross Church, this church is a spectacular example of the Neo-Roman architectural style. It was built on the recommendation of the King of Portugal to encourage people to accept Christianity.
- Location: Santa Cruz, Goa 403005
- When was it built: 1547
10. Chapel of St. Catherine
Although not as spectacular as the other churches in Goa, this church has a huge historical significance. This elegant church was built by the Portuguese general, Afonso de Albuquerque to celebrate the victorious march into the city.
Even today, this fact is quite evident from the inscribed stone, which tells that this is the exact spot where the Portuguese general set foot. The chapel is simple in architecture and has graceful interiors.
- Location: North Goa, Goa 403110
- When was it built: 1510
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11. Church of the Cross of Miracles
The church is another historical monument in North Goa. It is famous for its Miraculous Cross, which is said to have supernatural healing properties. It’s a church with a history of its own. It is visited by people of all religions on the day of the feast when thousands of devotees throng the church to seek the blessings of the Holy Mother.
- Location: Bainguinim, Goa 403110
- When was it built: 1619
12. Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca
Situated at the confluence of Mandovi and Mapusa rivers, this church is a scenic beauty and a visual treat. The magnificent architecture, stained glass windows, high vaulted ceiling makes it among the most beautiful churches in North Goa.
The church is named after a Spanish saint, Saint Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca, who is believed to have saved Portuguese from a dangerous situation on their voyage to India.
- Location: Betim, Bardez.
- When was it built: 1626
13. St. Clara’s Church
Located in the midst of lush greenery, this church is a scenic attraction in North Goa. Its white exteriors and beautiful architecture makes a surreal sight when visited in the daytime.
The church was attacked several times and destroyed by the Marathas. But each time, it was rebuilt anew. The church is known for its healing sessions, which is attended by huge crowds.
- Location: Assonora, Goa 403503
- When was it built: 1768
14. Chapel of Saint Sebastian
This chapel is dedicated to St. Sebastian, who once healed many people of diseases and plagues. Even now, the chapel’s crucifix is believed to be magical and punish wrongdoers and troublemakers, and bring justice to good people.
- Location: Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403001
- When was it built: 1818
15. St. Elizabeth’s Church
This church in North Goa has a striking Mannerist architectural style, with impressive rococo features. It was constructed by the Franciscan friars in 1618. Though a storm destroyed it in 1708, it was rebuilt on a much larger scale. This elegant church has a magnificent statue of Jesus Christ on the front of the church.
- Location: Aldona, Balbot, Ucassaim, Goa 403508
- When was it built: 1618
16. Church of Lady of Rosary
This church is the oldest church in North Goa and has an immense historical significance. This church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is believed to be built by Afonso de Albuquerque as a gratitude for his victory over armies of the Deccan Sultanate of Bijapur.
It is also here that St. Francis Xavier gave his first sermon when he arrived in Goa. The church looks more like a fortress, with its rounded towers and early Portuguese architecture.
- Location: Bainguinim, Goa 403110
- When was it built: 1510
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17. Church of St. Anne
This church is a marvellous monument, in the North of Goa. It is a unique specimen of Indian Baroque architectural style and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located on the banks of Siridao River, this church has a white-washed exterior and its interiors have a cylindrical roof.
- Location: Talaulim, Goa 403110
- When was it built: 1695
Churches in South Goa
18. St Alex Church
This massive church has a unique architectural style. The church dome and its towers are the special attractions of this church. The interiors and the gilded altars are ornate in design and marvellous to look.
It is one of the oldest churches in Goa. It was built on the site of Ravalnath, an ancient Hindu Temple, whose ruins can still be seen around the church. Many feasts like are held in the church.
- Location: Curtorim, Goa 403709
- When was it built: 1741
19. St. Andrew’s Church
Among the most famous churches in South Goa, St. Andrew’s Church will impress you with its elegant Neo-gothic architecture. Situated in the historical town of Vasco da Gama, this church is named after St. Andrew, the patron saint of fishermen. The church runs a school on its premises.
- Location: Vaddem, New Vaddem, Vasco da Gama, Goa 403802
- When was it built: 1570
20. Three Kings Chapel
This church is among the most famous churches in South Goa. Located on a hill, this church gives spectacular scenic views of the coastline and the lush greenery. You are also treated to view stunning views of sunrise and sunset.
The chapel has a most interesting history behind it. Many believe it is haunted by the ghost of three kings who once ruled this land. It’s also a favourite location for Bollywood films.
- Location: Muder, Cansaulim, Goa 40371
- When was it built: 1721
21. St. John the Baptist Church
This church, among the most beautiful sights in North Goa, has a typical Goan architecture. Situated on top of a hill, this church has charming altar and galleries with lovely designs. The feast in this church is a very energetic event when there are many festivities and a lot of fun and enjoyment.
- Location: Perto de Igreja principál de, Benaulim, Goa
- When was it built: 1956
For a complete Goa trip, a trip to these churches is worthy of your time. The rich culture and history of Goa are on full display at these famous churches. If you have visited them, do write your comments in the section below.
You can also comment on a church that you know of yourself, and not find mention in this list. It will be a valuable knowledge to us and also to fellow tourists who visit Goa.
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