# Bhagwati Devi Temple (Pernem)

 The temple of Sri Bhagwati is quite unique and is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati who is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. The Shri Bhagwati temple is an ancient temple in Goa. It is said to be more than 500 years old and is situated by the side of the main road.The Portuguese rule was quite disadvantageous for the existing temples in Goa as they had to face destruction and devastation at the hands of the foreign rulers. Very few temples survived the wrath of the invaders. Shri Bhagwati Temple is one of the few temples that were allowed to stand.

The presiding deity of temple is Goddess Bhagwati in Ashtabhuja (eight hands) form. On a high pedestal in a standing position the Goddess Bhagwati is also very imposing. At the entrance of the Bhagwati temple, visitors are welcomed by two life size statues of elephants in standing position, made of black stone.The main festival celebrated at this temple is Dussehra. The festival is one of the main attractions here and is celebrated with gaiety from Ashwin Shuddha Pratipada to Poornima. At that time more than twenty five thousand devotees assemble at the temple.Shri Bhagavati temple complex has five temples, main temple being of Shri Bhagavati, other temples are of Shri Sateri, Shri Dev Ravalnath, Shri Dev Bhivangi Panchakshari & Brahma (Shri Vishnu, Shri Ganapath, Shri Shankar).

# Radha Krishna Temple ( Vasco )

The Magnificent Radha Krishna Temple at the BITS Pilani Goa Campus in Zuarinagar, Sancoale Vasco is becoming the popular tourist spot in the State of Goa. This temple is an architectural wonder. During night time the temple is well illuminated with designer lights and looks fabulous.

 # Brahma Temple

Legend has it that Brahma the creator of the Hindu holy trinity was to have just one temple at Pushkar, in Rajasthan. However, little known to many, there is another Brahma temple, this one tucked away in a remote village of Nagargao in Valpoi, Goa.“The Brahma statue in this temple stands tall and elegant. The statue of Lord Brahma blesses all those who come to see him. The beautifully chiseled image of Brahma is dated to the Kadamba period and belongs to the 12^th century.The importance of this temple and Brahma idol lies in the fact that it is the original piece of sculpture chiseled out of a black stone during the Kadamba period. Inside the temple the idol of Lord Brahma stands at the center and wears a beard. Brahma is shown in Trimurti form that is the trinity of Brahma – Vishnu – Mahesh.

 
According to historians in Goa, it was in the 16^th century when the island of Tiswadi was conquered by the Portuguese and there was a fear of destruction of the temple.Hence in 1541, the devotees of Brahma smuggled the deity out of Karmali village in Old Goa and in a clandestine manner, carried it to the Sattari taluka which then had not come under Portuguese rule.Sattari taluka came under the Portuguese rule as late as 1781. The devotees then took the idol to Valpoi village and from there to dense forest area of Nagargaon and installed the image in a small shrine on the banks of a stream. This small hamlet later came to be known after the deity Brahma and the village of its origin Karmali (in the Tiswadi taluka) and hence the name Brahma Karmali.

# Kamakshi Saunsthan Temple

 The temple of Shri Kamakshi is located amidst the hills of the picturesque village of Shiroda and was built in the late 16^th century.In the village of Shiroda, a huge Mahadwar or temple gate leads to the Kamakshi temple complex known as ‘Sthal’ or more commonly called ‘Thal’. After passing under the Mahadwar, as one descends the flight of stairs. The temple, crowned by an octagonal, two-storied tower, with a golden Kalash perched on its Shikhar or peak, can be seen prominently.The temple of Shri Kamakshi has a large Sabha Mandap or the traditional open entrance hall. In front of the temple, one can see a tall Deepasthambh or the lamp tower and a holy water tank. The square shaped chowk, Gan is used for conducting the Prasad ritual. The deity Shri Kamakshi can be seen in the Gabhara or the Sanctum Sanctorum in all its splendor.

 
The Kamakshi temple also has Kshetrapals or affiliated protector deities like Shri Vetal and Shri Kalbhairav. Another shrine in the Prakar or precinct has deities like Shri Rayeshwar or Lord Shiva, Shri Lakshminarayana or Lord Vishnu with his consort, Goddess Laxmi, and Shri Shantadurga.The palanquin procession of the idol of Shri Kamakshi and Shree Laxmi Narayan is taken around the temple premises, every Amavasya or on the New Moon Day. Thousands of devotees throng the temple for darshan on this day. In addition, the palanquin procession of Shri Rayeshwar is held in the temple premises on Chaturdashi or pre-New Moon Day, and that of Shri Shantadurga on Panchami or fifth day after the New Moon Day.In addition, the annual festivities are held at the temple during the Navratri/ Dussehra period and at the time of Jatra in spring. The Divja procession held during the Jatra, offers a spectacular site, where countless married women walk around the temple in the evening, holding Divja or clay lamps.

# Madanant Mandir

 Shri Madanant temple is situated in Savoi, Verem in the Ponda Taluka and is surrounded by hills and fields, betel nuts, coconut and cashew nut trees.The deity to whom this temple in the Ponda taluka is dedicated, Shri Vishnu is lying on the Sheshyasan. Shri Laxmi, the consort of Vishnu, is sitting at the feet of Lord Vishnu. The temple is believed to be 500 years old.

# Mahadev Temple (Tambdi Surla)

 The most ancient temple in the whole of Goa is Mahadev temple located at a place called Tambi Surla at Mollem.The temple itself was built in Jain style in the Twelfth century. There are some interesting details about the construction itself which has led to debates about the actual origins of the temple. The temple is built in a place which is quite inaccessible and away from the main settlements of the time.The small, beautifully carved and perfectly proportioned black basalt temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva is considered to be the only specimen of Kadamba-Yadava architecture in basalt stone preserved and available in Goa.

 
The temple faces east so that the rays of the rising sun fall on the deity at the crack of dawn. Bas-relief figures of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma, with their respective consorts appear on panels at the sides of the temple. Surprisingly the mandap is covered with a roof of plain grey sloping slabs.The river Surla flows nearby and can be reached via a flight of stone steps. There is a headless Nandi (bull, Shiva’s vehicle) in the centre of the mandap, surrounded by four matching columns. The symbol of the Kadamba kingdom, an elephant trampling a horse is carved on the base of one of the columns.There is a linga (symbol of Lord Shiva) mounted on a pedestal inside the inner sanctum and local legend has it that a huge King Cobra is in permanent residence in the dimly lit interior.The festival of Mahashivratri is celebrated with all pomp and gaiety at the temple by the local people residing in surrounding villages.

# Maha Ganapati Temple

 According to the Archaeological Survey of Goa, the idols of Maha Ganapati and Mahamaya (also referred as Durgadevi and Shantadurga) were located in Ella at Tiswadi, Goa along with Shri Gomanteshwar and its affiliates.During the Muslim invasion in Goa in the 13^th century the temple in Ella was destroyed and the idols were transferred to Navelim and Goltim. Until the early 16^th century, the deities were worshiped on the island, following which they were evicted by the overzealous Portuguese missionaries. The devotees had no choice but to transfer the idols to Khandepar and from there to their final destination at Khandola.

# Mahalaxmi Temple

 The village of Bandode or Bandivade is the location of a number of temples among which is the large and beautiful temple of Goddess Mahalaxmi.The temple of Goddess Mahalaxmi has been in existence since at least the year 1413, when information about the rituals of the temple is found on stone plaques carved during the reign of Nanjan Gosavi Pratihast over Goa.However, there was another temple of Mahalaxmi in the fifteenth century in the town of Colva in Salcette. As is the case with most Hindu deities in Goa, the idol of Mahalaxmi from this temple was also smuggled away in the middle of the night to avoid persecution by the Portuguese in the sixteenth century.

 
Two devotees Safto and Fato, took the idol away in a trunk and first took her to the town of Talauli near Ponda. Till today, the people of this village worship the sign of the feet of the goddess. The idol brought from Colva was then taken to Bandode and installed along with the existing idol.So today there are two idols of Mahalaxmi in the temple premises, along with other deities such as Shri Ravalnath, Shri Baleshwar, Shri Narayan Purush and interestingly also idols of the two devotees i.e. Safto and Fato who managed to save the Goddess from Colva.The second Goddess Mahalaxmi from Colva is taken out in a procession only once a year on the auspicious day of Ramnavmi when she is taken around in a palakhi (palanquin) and a chariot.On the second day of this festival, both the idols are taken out in one chariot to be paraded in a huge procession. The main idol of the Goddess Mahalaxmi is also taken out during the festival of Mahashivratri, on a chariot carried on the shoulders of devotees.

# Mahalsa Temple (Mardol)

 The temple of Mahalsa Narayani is located at the small village of Mardol, just about a kilometre from the famous Mangueshi temple and about 22 kms from Panaji, the capital city.Originally, the deity was housed in a temple at an ancient shrine in village of Verna which is now the site of an industrial estate. Along with other Goan temples, this beautiful temple at Verna was also marked for destruction by the Portuguese around 1543.However, before the actual demolition could take place the idol of the deity was smuggled away across the river by faithful devotees, to the safer locale of Mardol, where it is located today.Mahalsa is a Hindu goddess. She is venerated in two distinct traditions. As an independent goddess, she is considered as a form of Mohini, the female avatar of the god Vishnu and is called Mahalasa Narayani.

 
Mahalsa is also worshipped as the consort of the folk god Khandoba, a form of the god Shiva. In this tradition, she is associated with Parvati, Shiva’s wife as well as Mohini. It is also believed that she is incarnation of Parvati with the beauty of Mohini as per Lord Shiva’s wish.In the Mahalasa Narayani form, Mahalasa has four hands, carrying a Trishula, a sword, a severed head, and a drinking bowl. She stands on a prostate man or demon, as a tiger or lion licks blood dripping from the severed head. She also wears the yajnopavita (sacred thread), which is generally dedicated on male deities.Goud Saraswat Brahmins as well as Vaishnavas from Goa and South Canara identify her with Mohini and call her Narayani and Rahu-matthani, the slayer of Rahu, as told in the Bhavishya Purana.During the Samudra manthan (churning of the ocean of milk) by the gods and the demons, the demons steal the pot of amruta (elixir of immortality). The god Vishnu took the form of the enchantress, Mohini. Mohini seized the amruta from the demons and served it to the gods. Mohini is worshipped as Mahalasa Narayani or Mahalasa.

# Manguesh Temple

 This temple had its origins in Kushasthali Cortalim, a village in Saxty (Salcette) which fell to the invading Portuguese in 1543. In the year 1560, when the Portuguese started conversions in Salcete taluka, the Saraswats of Vatsa Gotra moved the Manguesh Linga from the original site at the Kushasthali or Cortalim on the banks of river Aghanashini (Zuari) to its present location at Mangueshi in Priol village of Atrunja Taluka, which was then ruled by the Hindu kings of Sonde of Antruz Mahal (Ponda), to be more secure.Since the time of the shifting, the temple has been rebuilt and renovated twice during the reign of the Marathas and yet another time in the year 1890. The final renovation occurred in the year 1973 when a golden kalasha (holy vessel) was fitted atop the tallest dome of the temple.

 
The main temple is dedicated to Bhagavan Manguesh, an incarnation of Shiva. Bhagavan Manguesh is worshipped here as Shiva linga. According to the legend, Lord Shiva had manifested into a tiger to scare his wife Parvati. Paravati, who was frightened at the sight of the tiger, went in search of Lord Shiva and cried out, “Trahi Mam girisha!” (Oh Lord of Mountains, save me!). Upon hearing the words, Lord Shiva turned himself back to his normal form. The words “mam girisha” became associated with Lord Shiva and over time the words got abbreviated to Manguirisha or Manguesh.
 
The Sabha Griha is a spacious hall which accommodates over 500. The decor includes the chandeliers of the nineteenth century. The central part of the Sabha Griha leads to the Garbha Griha where the image of Manguesh is consecrated. Like most temples in Goa, Mangueshi Temple has a large number of pujas being performed daily. Every morning, Shodshopchar pujas, namely Abhisheka, Laghurudra and Maharudra, are performed. This is followed by Maha-Aarti at noon and Panchopchar pooja at night.Every Monday, the idol of Manguesh is taken out for a precession in the Palakhi accompanied by music before the evening Aarti.

 # Shanta Durga Temple

 Shri Shantadurga Temple is situated at the foothill of Kavalem village in Ponda Taluka, Goa. A small laterite mud shrine was built and the deity was installed here. The mud-shrine was converted into a beautiful temple whose foundation stone was laid in 1730 and the temple was completed in 1738 and renovated in 1966.The temple is dedicated to Shantadurga, the goddess who mediates between Vishnu and Shiva. The deity is also called ‘Santeri’ colloquially. Local legends tell of a battle between Shiva and Vishnu. The battle was so fierce that the god Brahma prayed to Goddess Parvati to intervene, which she did in the form of Shantadurga. Shantadurga placed Vishnu on her right hand and Shiva on her left hand and settled the fight.

 
Shantadurga is shown as holding two serpents, one in each hand, representing Vishnu and Shiva.The original temple at Quelossim (Keloshi) in Salsete was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1564. The goddess was transferred to Kavalem and worship was continued there.The current temple was constructed during the reign of Maratha ruler Chattrapati Shahu, who was the grandson of Shivaji Maharaj, of Satara in about 1738. Naroram Mantri (Naroram Shenvi Rege) originally from Kochara village in the Vengurla region was a Mantri (minister) in Shahu’s Court around 1723. He obtained finances to construct the new temple for the goddess from Shahu. The temple construction started around 1730 and, with the help from other Mahajans, the present temple was completed. Due to his efforts, the village of Kavalem was bequeathed to the Temple by Shahu in 1739.The temple has a huge tank, a Deepastambha and agrashalas (guest houses).

# Shri Chandranath Temple

 Shri Chandranath is located on the top of a 350m high hill of Chandranath, Paroda in Quepem. The main Deity is Lord Chandreshwar.Lord Chandreshwar was the titular deity of the Bhoja kings who ruled South Goa before the coming of the Portuguese, till the middle of 8th century. They had named their capital Chandrapur after the deity.The temple has the famous Shiva Linga, which was supposed to ooze water with the touch of moonlight. Some sources say that the temple has been designed in such a way, that moonlight falls directly on the Shiva Linga on full moon nights.

# Shri Datta Mandir

 Datta Mandir is located at Sanquelim in the Bicholim Taluka of North Goa.It is known as the hometown of the Ranes of Sattari who played a key role in Goa’s freedom struggle. Sanquelim is very famous for some of its Hindu temples.There are also a number of places to visit around Sanquelim which include the Arvalem waterfalls which are just 2 kms from Sanquelim. Also one can find the Arvalem Caves nearby.The deity of the Datta Mandir, the Hindu Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwar, is said to have cured many people who were of unsound mind.The most important festival, which is attended by devotees from all over Goa, is Datta Jayanti which falls in the month of December.

 # Shri Gopal Ganapati Temple (Farmagudi)

 About 90-100 years back, a cow herder called Hapo, who was employed by King Soundhekar of Bandiwade, found a 1 foot stone Ganesha idol in the forest. He consecrated it in a mandapa made of coconut branches.Even today, a Gudi is erected here every Anant Chaturthi.The first chief Minister of Goa, the late Shri. Dayanand Bandodkar, was inspired to build a new temple here. He had the Idol, which was made of metal alloy, consecrated on April 24, 1966.It is a good specimen of Indian Temple architecture, synthetizing both the ancient and modern forms.

# Shri Navdurga Saunsthan

 Shri Navdurga Saunsthan in Goa is situated at Borim which is about 34 kms. from Panaji and 12 kms. from Margao. The temple is among the famous religious places in Goa and houses an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, the consort of Shiva known as Goddess Navdurga.The temple is dedicated to goddess Navdurga, the temple is believed to be more than 500yrs old and was renovated in the year 1603.

 
The presiding deity worshipped at the temple is Mahishasuramardini who is the ferocious form of goddess Durga and this beautiful idol of the deity is carved out of a stone which is about 4 ft in height.Other gods and goddesses worshiped here are Lord Ganesh, Narayana, Betala, Ravalnatha, and Grampurush.Thousands of devotees throng the Shri Navdurga Saunsthan during the month of November from Vidya Chaturthi to Dashami for the annual Jatra, which is celebrated with great pomp and gaiety.

# Shri Ramnath Temple (Ramnathi)

 The idol of Lord Ramnath was initially housed in a temple at a settlement called Lotli (present-day Loutolim) which was set up by Gaud Saraswat Brahmins who had migrated from Rameshwar on the southern shores of India.Lord Ramnath, like many other deities in Goa, was removed from the original temple at Loutolim and smuggled away to its present day abode of Bandivade, to avoid persecution by the Portuguese regime. Bandivade was under the control of Bijapur at the time.The temple also houses other deities viz. Shri LaxmiNarayan, Shri Kamakshi, Shri Santeri and Shri Sidhanath. Unlike most temples in Goa, the sabhamandap (grand hall) of the temple has no pillars and yet has a special gallery for the ladies. There is a five-storied deepstambha (lamp tower) in the courtyard with images of Hindu saints carved on its base.

 
The door to the inner sanctum has some exceptionally beautiful scenes depicted on it in silver metal. Once scene depicts devotees worshipping a linga, and the other shows Lord Vishnu with his consort Lakshmi sitting on his couch of a coiled snake.The annual festival or Jatra of the temple is celebrated with pomp and gaiety by the devotees with the traditional palakhi (palanquin) parading around the temple carrying the idol of the deity.

# Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple

 This is also an ancient temple, Saptakoteshwar having been the deity of the Kings of the Kadamba dynasty around the twelfth century. Coins found from this era mention the name of the deity along with that of the King Jayakeshi.After the Portuguese conquest, in the year 1540 during the years of the Inquisition, once again the linga at the temple was removed. Soon afterwards, it was smuggled away by one of the locals named Narayan Shenvi Suryarao and taken to a place called Latambarsem where it remained for 3 years. In 1543, it was installed in a temple near the island of Divar.

 
The Maratha King Shivaji conquered the area in 1664. On one of his many expeditions to Goa against the Portuguese in 1668, he gave the order for the Saptakoteshwar temple at Narve to be rebuilt and the linga installed in its proper place. The stone plaque mentioning this order can still be seen near the temple entrance today.
The legend behind the name Saptakoteshwar is also quite interesting. According to the legend, seven holy sages once set out to pray to Lord Shiva near the place where five holy rivers met the sea. They prayed for seven crore years at the end of which, Lord Shiva appeared to grant their wishes and agreed to stay at the place in one of his incarnations. This incarnation is known as Saptakoteshwar (sapt means seven and koteshwar means lord of crores).The most important festival celebrated at the temple, attended by thousands of devotees from Goa and other parts of India, is Gokulashtami which is considered to be the day on which Lord Shiva appeared in this incarnation to grant the wishes of the seven holy sages.

# Shri Sapteshwar Bhagavati Temple

 Not far from Morjim are located two temples -the Shri Bhagavati temple at Parshem and Sapteshwar Bhagamati at Mandrem in Pernem Taluka. The Shri Bhagavati Temple at Parshem is situated at a distance of 7 kms from Pernem in Pernem Taluka.The Shri Bhagavati temple complex has five temples, the main temple being that of Devi Bhagavati. The other temples in the complex are those of Shri Sateri, Shri Dev Ravalnath, Shri Dev Bhivangi Panchakshari & Brahma (Shri Vishnu, Shri Ganapath, Shri Shankar). The unique feature of the Shri Bhagavati temple is that it has two ‘Deepstambhas’.

 
The major festivals observed are the 7 days ‘Bhajanisaptah’ at Mandrem, which is celebrated in the Indian month of Kartika. The annual Jatra, Dussehra and the Shimgo are the other festivals that are celebrated here. These festivals are attended by large crowds of both devotees and tourists. Surrounding the main temples can be seen some exquisitely sculptured ancillary deities.

# Shri Rudreshwar Temple

 The temple of Rudreshwar is located in the Bicholim Taluka at a distance of 45 kms from Panaji. Shri Rudreshwar Temple is newly built on the site of an ancient site and is also known as the temple of Lord Shiva, where devotees go to seek blessings for themselves and their ancestors.The beautiful Arvalem waterfalls is located just next to the temple. The image of Lord Rudreshwar lies facing the waterfall.Early in the morning, devotees flock to the temple to pay their obeisance to the deity. The temple is accessed by stairs that start near the mouth of the waterfall.The festival of Mahashivaratri draws big crowds amongst the locals. However, the temple assumes importance as Hindus perform rites for the dead here.

 # Shri Vitthal Mandir

 Situated at Vithalwadi, Sanquelim. Shri Vitthal is the ancestral God of ‘Ranes’ who had put up prolonged memorable resistance to Portuguese rule.The main festival is Chaitri (April). Its celebration is a lavish affair for the people miles around The ancestors of the present Rane family, who are believed to have migrated to Goa from Udaipur about 600 years ago, built the famous Sri Vitthal temple situated on the bank of Valvanta River.The temple was reconstructed in 1942 AD, incorporating the North India style of temple architecture though sanctum-sanctorum was left untouched. The main festivities at the temple are held during the nine days preceding “Chairtra Purnima”.An exquisitely carved wooden chariot symbolizing the chariot of Arjuna of Mahabharata and driven by Lord Krishna is an important attraction of the temple complex.

# The Lairai Mandir

 The Lairai Mandir in Sirgao displays a combination of the northern and southern styles of art and temple design. The Shirgao Jatra is famous among devotees and tourists alike for the celebrated walk on hot coals raked from an enormous bonfire.The Jatra takes place in early part of May, when thousands of devotees of Devi Lairai descend on the small town and religious rituals and poojas dedicated to the Goddess are performed throughout the auspicious day.Hundreds of people from the villages in surrounding areas also take part in these celebrations. Groups of these villagers from villages such as Maulingem, arrive in the early morning hours and participate in events throughout the day.

 
Late into the night, as midnight approaches, the devotees perform a frantic dance inside the temple which is all lit up for the occasion. The dancing takes place to the rhythm of drum beats, in a tight circle in front of Goddess Lairai. While chanting and moving in a tight circle the devotees hold the special sticks clashing them against one another.The circular dance reaches a feverish high with a single drum beat denoting the end of each dance session. The dance sessions end around midnight when all eyes are on the huge pile of wood kept in a large clearing near the temple. The final and most spectacular part of the Jatra then begins, when a specially chosen person races from the temple to the wooden pile and lights a massive bonfire with a blazing torch.
 
In the early hours of the morning when the fire has died down, the raking of the coals begins. The devotees await their turn to walk on the holy path of hot coals. Around 4 am, the actual ritual starts, with the devotees running through the hot coals carrying their sticks and shouting the name of Devi Lairai.As the crowd watches in stunned silence, some devotees do the ‘hot run’ once, others do it several times. Those who have finished their run, then remove and throw their flower garlands onto a nearby Banyan tree and return home. The Jatra reaches its conclusion as the sun rises in the distant hills.

# Jama Masjid

 Situated 26 kms from Margao at Sanguem and built in the last century, the Jama Masjid was completely renovated in 1959. The new structure is remarkable for its harmonious proportions and elegant simplicity with its four minarets.

# Safa Masjid

The Shahouri Masjid in Ponda taluka, the biggest and most famous of the mosques in Goa, was built in 1560 by Ibrahim Adilshah of Bijapur. Adjacent to the mosque is a well constructed masonry tank with small chambers with ‘meharab’ designs. The two major festivals of Id-Ul-Fitr and Id-Ul-Zuha are celebrated at this mosque with great pomp.

# Mayem Lake

Set amidst the picturesque surroundings of a sleepy Goan village, the Mayem Lake is a popular tourist picnic in North Goa. Even the journey to reach the lake is a beautiful one on a winding Goan road through the thickets of cashew trees, areca nut trees and pineapple plantations.

The region around the lake is hilly, and the slopes are covered with forests and wild cashews. Around the lake are vendors selling trinkets and snacks most notably coconuts and coconut water.

# Carambolim Lake

One of the most famous and picturesque lakes in Goa, this lake has the added attraction of also being a great place for bird-watching. This manmade lake plays host to a number of species of birds, both resident and migratory. The lake and the forested area around it are so famous for its avian population that it has since been declared the Carambolim Bird Sanctuary.

This peaceful and serene lake is counted not just as one of the best places for bird watching in Goa, but also one of the best places in India for bird watching. The birds here are of both aquatic and terrestrial types and although they are mostly herbivorous, there are also some avian fishers among them.

# Netravali Lake (Budbudyanche Taley)

The Netravali Lake goes by many names, like Budbud, Budbudyachi Tali, and Bubble Lake. Situated in the peaceful and serene village of Netravali the lake is famous for its bubbles. These bubbles rise continuously to the surface in various places in the lake. Strangely enough, they also appear to respond to certain sounds and rise faster if you clap!

Though it is called a lake, it is more of a pond, with granite steps leading to it. There is also a huge granite pedestal in the centre of the lake. The lake/pond is a place of religious significance for the local peoples, not merely for the lake, but also for the nearby Gopinath Temple.

# Basilica of Bom Jesus

Don’t let its unassuming air fool you, the Bom Jesus Basilica is a World Heritage Monument, and has been christened so by UNESCO. Its un-plastered exterior appears at first glance to be inferior as compared to the sparkling facades of churches like the Se Cathedral, but this little Basilica is rich in art, architecture and history, and the relics of Saint Francis Xavier are enshrined here.

Timings

·         Masses are held regularly at the Bom Jesus Basilica, the timings are as follows

·         Sunday – 8.00am, 9.15am and 6.00pm in Konkani, 10.15am in English

·         Mon to Sat – 7.00am, 8.00am and 6.00pm

·         Mass is also held at the chapel of St. Francis Xavier on the 6th of every month at 10.00am. Holy hour is held on the first Friday of every month at 5.00pm followed by Mass.

·         If you do not want to hear Mass, the Basilica is open to the public for viewing and exploration at the following times,

·         Mon to Sat – 9.00am to 6.30pm

·         Sunday – 10.30am to 6.30pm

Claim to fame : Houses the relics of St. Francis Xavier and is the only Basilica in Goa.

Must View

·         Quadrangular pediment at the top of the un-plastered façade

·         Carved columns both inside and outside

·         Statue of St. Francis Xavier

·         Main altar with carvings and gilding

·         Gilded reredos with the statues of St. Ignatius and the Infant Jesus

The reredos has within it a large statue of St. Ignatius of Loyola protecting the Infant Jesus. His eyes are raised to a carved disc, once more bearing the Jesuit emblem of “IHS”. Above this medallion is a depiction of the Holy Trinity, i.e. The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit.

·         Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament

·         Chapel of St. Francis Xavier

On the southern side of the transept lies the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier. This chapel has carved and gilded columns and wood-carved floral decorations. This is where the relics of the saint are kept. There is a gorgeous silver statue placed in front of the silver casket where the body of St. Francis Xavier reposes

·         Sacristy – chest containing the Golden Rose

·         Painting of the relics of the saint

·         Paintings of the saints

·         Modern art gallery paintings, especially “The Last Judgement” and “Genesis”

The Basilica also contains a modern art gallery with paintings depicting various Biblical scenes. The gallery can be accessed using the stairs near the sacristy. It is one of the largest of its kind in Asia. It contains 36 paintings executed between the years 1973 and 1976. The artist was paid only for the materials used as his talent was given gratis, for the greater glory of God.

History, Construction and Architecture

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a monument typical of the classic forms of plane architecture, introduced by the Society of Jesus, otherwise known as the Jesuits. The façade, which is of granite, represents features of five styles of architecture: Roman, Ionic, Doric, Corinthian and Composite. It is a large single Nave structure built ( 1595-1605) and paid for with legacies left by Dom Jeronimo Mascarenhas, a wealthy Portuguese Captain of Cochin.It is the only monument with a façade not covered with plaster. The plaster was stripped off in 1970 by an over-zealous Portuguese conservationist who believed that this would help preserve the carvings on the façade better. Unfortunately, even though this was soon seen to be a false assumption, no one has put the plaster back.

The foundation stone for this church was laid on the 24^th of November, 1594. Archbishop Rev. Fr. Aleixo de Menezes consecrated the church, on its completion on the 15^th of May 1605. However, it was only raised to the status of “minor Basilica” in 1946.The three-storied structure stands 75ft wide and 78½ft tall. The façade of the church, though un-plastered, is a magnificent example of baroque architecture. It combines elements of Doric, Ionic and Corinthian design, and is divided into four parts.The lowest section has three doors set into it, a large one in the middle with two smaller ones flanking it. The second section has three square windows whose positioning corresponds to that of the doors. The third section has three circular windows whilst the last section forms a quadrangle, lavishly decorated with arabesque. This quadrangular pediment also has “IHS” carved into it. This is the Jesuit emblem and stands for “Iesus Hominum Salvator”, which is Latin for, “Jesus, Saviour of Men”. All the sections have carved basalt pillars. The basalt was mined from Bassein in the North of Goa.

Interior and Artwork

The interior of the church is a study in contrasts. The design in itself is simple, but the floor is laid with the finest marble, and was inlaid with precious stones. The altar is elaborately carved and gilded.The retable of the main altar exhibits a huge statue of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder (along with St. Francis Xavier who was a founding member) of the Society of Jesus and below it, a small image of Bom Jesus (Child Jesus), the patron of the church.On the southern side of the transept lies the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier. This chapel has carved and gilded columns and wood-carved floral decorations. This is where the relics of the saint are kept. There is a gorgeous silver statue placed in front of the silver casket where the body of St. Francis Xavier reposes.

The interior of the Basilica measures 83ft in length, 51ft in width and 61ft in height. It is laid out in the orthodox cruciform fashion with a single nave and transept. The ceiling was once vaulted, but has since been replaced with a simple wooden one. The main altar measures a massive 54ft by 30ft. The interiors, while being furnished with the best of materials show a remarkable simplicity typical of Renaissance design.The Basilica contains two chapels, three altars, a sacristy and a choir loft. There is also a belfry at the back. The door through which one enters stands beneath the choir loft. To the right is an altar which is dedicated to St. Anthony and to the left is a well-carved statue of St. Francis Xavier. On the northern wall of the nave is the cenotaph of Dom Jeronimo Mascarenhas. He was the Captain of Cochin and his estate made possible the construction of the Basilica.
 
The columns which support the choir loft bear plaques inscribed in Portuguese and Latin detailing the dates of the Basilica’s construction and consecration. In the transept are two altars which flank the main one. They are highly carved and decorated and are dedicated to St. Michael and Our Lady of Good Hope.The main altar is extremely well carved and gilded. It is backed by an ornate reredos which stretches from floor to ceiling, its baroque carvings in sharp contrast to the classically plain design of the Basilica. The reredos has within it a large statue of St. Ignatius of Loyola protecting the Infant Jesus. His eyes are raised to a carved disc, once more bearing the Jesuit emblem of “IHS”. Above this medallion is a depiction of the Holy Trinity, i.e. The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit.
 
On the northern side of the transept is the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. On the southern side is the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier. Adjoining this chapel is a corridor leading to the sacristy, accessed by a marvellously carved wooden door. It is a vaulted wooden structure ending in an apse. In this reposes an altar which has an iron chest containing the Golden Rose which was bestowed upon the Se Cathedral by Pope Pius XII.The walls are hung with paintings of the saints and the sacristy also contains a beautifully carved chest of drawers. Near the iron chest is a painting of the relics of St. Francis Xavier, done about 100 years ago.

Modern Art Gallery

The Basilica also contains a modern art gallery with paintings depicting various Biblical scenes. The gallery can be accessed using the stairs near the sacristy. It is one of the largest of its kind in Asia. It contains 36 paintings executed between the years 1973 and 1976. The artist was paid only for the materials used as his talent was given gratis, for the greater glory of God.The most notable paintings are entitled “The Last Judgement” and “Genesis”

Tomb of St. Francis Xavier

Fr. Francis Xavier died of a fever in 1552 on the island of Shangchaun, whilst waiting for a boat to travel to China. His last rites were performed and he was laid to rest in a simple coffin in the Portuguese colony of Malacca. When his remains were disinterred some years later, they were found to be “fresh and intact”. Upon hearing of this, the Vatican canonized him a saint. His remains were buried in three different places before they came to their final resting place in Goa.The arrangements of keeping the body of St Francis Xavier in the Chapel were completed on 24^th April 1659. The mausoleum, in Florentine style, was the offer of the last of the Medici’s, Cosimo III, Duke of Tuscany. It is a masterpiece setting and was made by Giovanni Batista Foggini and assembled in Goa by Placido Francesco Ramponi.The silver casket is made up of silver panels which depict 32 scenes from the life of the saint. These panels were created for this purpose by Goan silversmiths under the supervision of Fr. Marco Mastrilli SJ.

The tomb of the great saint, rests beneath a shower of gilt stars. It has three parts: the altars, the Florentine mausoleum and the silver casket. There are four altars, one on each of the four sides of the tomb. They are constructed of reddish jasper with white strips which are ornamented with flourishes and fringes. There are two Cherubim in each corner. They are made of pure alabaster. In the centre of each altar’s frontispiece there is an emblem in bold relief. Above the altars is a quadrangle of spotted jasper. On all four sides are bronze plaques depicting scenes from the life of the saint.
 
In the first scene we see St. Francis preaching to the Malaccan people. Above the panel is a bronze sun disc and two alabaster angels holding a bronze banner inscribed with the words “Nox inimical fugat”. The second scene shows St. Francis baptisting the Malaccans with his right hand and holding a crucifix in his left. The bronze sun is at it’s zenith above this plaque and the banner held by the angels reads “Ut vitam habeant”. The third scene depicts St Francis being attacked by the Moro islanders with stones and arrows. The bronze medallion shows a lion in a storm and the banner reads “Nihil horum vereor”. The fourth plaque shows the death of St. Francis on the island of Shangchaun surrounded by his disciples. The medallion depicts the setting sun and the banner reads “Major in occasu”. Taken together these four Latin phrases can be roughly translated to mean “I drive away the enemy of the night, that they may have new life and fear not the great setting of the sun”

Above this quadrangle is a balustrade of jasper and it is on this balustrade that the silver coffin rests. There are 32 silver plates which form the four sides of the casket. The scenes that they depict are as follows:

·         Francis lies on the ground with his arms and legs tied, but the cords are miraculously broken.

·         Francis kisses the ulcer of a patient lying in a Venetian hospital.

·         He is visited by St. Jerome as he lies ailing in the hospital of Vicenza.

·         A vision about his future apostolate.

·         A vision about his sister’s prophecy regarding his fate.

·         He saves the secretary of the Portuguese Ambassador while crossing the Alps.

·         He lifts a sick man who dies after receiving communion.

·         He baptizes the people in Travancore.

·         He resuscitates a boy who drowned in a well at Cape Comorin

·         He miraculously cures a man full of sores

·         He drives away the Badagas in Travancore

·         He resuscitates three persons: a man who was buried at Coulao; a boy about to be buried at Multao and another child.

·         He takes money from his empty pockets and gives to a Portuguese beggar at Malyapore.

·         He effects a miraculous cure.

·         A crab restores his crucifix which had fallen into the sea.

·         He preaches in the island of Moro.

·         He preaches in the sea of Malacca and announces victory against the enemies.

·         He converts a Portuguese soldier.

·         He helps the dying Vicar of Malacca.

·         Francis kneels down and on his shoulders there rests a child whom he restores to health.

·         He goes walking from Amanguchi to Meaco.

·         He cures a dumb paralytic in Amanguchi.

·         He cures a deaf Japanese person.

·         He prays on the ship during a storm.

·         He baptizes three kings in Cochin.

·         He cures a religious person in the College of St. Paul.

·         Due to lack of water, he sweetens the sea water, during a voyage.

·         The agony of Francis at Sancian.

·         After his death he is seen by a lady according to his promise.

·         The body dressed in sacerdotal vestments is exposed for public veneration.

·         Francis levitates as he distributes communion in the College of St. Paul.

·         The body is placed in a niche at Chaul with lighted candles.

The casket is topped by a cross standing on a pedestal with the figures of angels, one on either side. The angel placed near where his head rests bears a heart with a halo, whilst the one near his feet has the motto “Satis est! Domine, satis est” which means “It is enough, Oh Lord, it is enough”During the time of the exposition, the plates on the side of the silver casket are removed so that devotees may see the “intact” remains of the saint through the glass urn. The glass urn was put in place after the exposition in 1954, when it was decided that the relics should no longer be directly touched. It was made in the Casa Brandizzi in Rome and the relics were placed inside with all ceremony in 1955, before the whole was placed into the silver casket.

Professed House

The construction of the Professed house, which lies next door to the Basilica, began in 1585 and so predates the Basilica by a few years. It is a two-storied building, built of laterite rock and covered with lime plaster. Its construction was completed in 1589 under the aegis of Br. Domingos Fernandes.This became the mission centre for all Jesuit missions to the eastern regions of the known world. The “Casa Professa”, according to Jesuit canon, was intended for the exercise of the Ministries of the Society of Jesus, and should be conspicuous for its exact adherence to the Jesuit way of life.

Legend and Lore

The legend has it that the Jesuits who wanted to construct the Professed House and later the Basilica met with stiff opposition from the Portuguese administration. They had a house on the property, but were being denied permission to build the church. On the eve of the day when they were to be evicted, the wily priests converted the house into a make-shift church, painting the word “Jesus” on the door and putting up a bell. The next morning the bell was rung, much to the surprise of the inhabitants of the surrounding areas, to call them for Mass. After that, the Portuguese were never able to evict the Jesuits from this place.Another interesting tale from the history of this Basilica is that the Duke of Tuscany, who sponsored the building of the mausoleum of St. Francis Xavier, did so out of gratitude. He had been presented with the pillow upon which the saint’s head had been resting by the Jesuit Procurator General of Goa. He felt that such a great saint deserved a grander resting place.
 
Many stories have originated around the relics of St. Francis Xavier. Some believers claim that his body shrinks every year, and when it shrinks to nothing, it will signify the end of the world. Others tell a tale of a woman, who whilst bending to kiss his feet in devotion bit off his big toe. They say that though the toe was bitten off a corpse it yet bled and so she was caught out and the toe returned to the rest of the relics.Simple yet regal, austere yet opulent, unassuming yet grand, this Basilica has risen from its humble beginnings into a world famous monument that commands respect and worship from religious pilgrims and architectural buffs alike. The atmosphere of the Basilica is cool, calm and majestic. The awe-inspiring feeling of being in the presence of something much greater than oneself is a truly humbling experience.

# Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount

Although its secluded location often leads to this little church being overlooked, it is certainly worth a stop on a tour of Velha Goa (Old Goa). With simple exteriors, lavish interiors and wealth of historical significance, this chapel is what one might call a hidden treasure. Its plain whitewashed walls present a delightful picture at sunset, and the view from its vantage point is truly breath taking.Situated as it is atop the Monte near the Church of St. Cajetan, it overlooks the expanse of the Mandovi and the islands of Devar and Chorao.

Claim to Fame

Plays host to the much acclaimed Monte Music festival, which attracts music buffs from all over every February.
 

Timings

The chapel is open to visitors at the following timings
Mon to Sat – 9.00am to 7.00pm
Sun – 9.00am to 12.00pm

Must View

·         View of the Mandovi from near the chapel

·         Chapel at sunset

·         Plaque commemorating the victory of Afonso de Albuquerque

In 1510 this was the site of the battle between the armies of Afonso de Albuquerque and Sultan Adil Shah, who was trying to retake Goa. To commemorate his victory and give thanks, Afonso de Albuquerque erected this chapel. In 1931 the Archaeological commission had a plaque placed here that, when translated, reads, “Here the Mohammedan artillery stood against Alfonso de Albuquerque to retake Goa in May, 1510”.

·         Eight panelled gilded reredos

·         Altars of St. Anthony

History, Construction and Architecture

It is on the top of the “Monte” that the chapel of Our Lady of the Mount” was built soon after the conquest of Goa to mark the site from where Adil Shah positioned his artillery against the Portuguese forces to retake Goa in 1510. So when Afonso de Albuquerque defeated the Sultan’s forces, he made a vow to construct a church at the very strategic point on the mount. The church was constructed in 1519 and has been rebuilt twice since. 
 

Interior and Artwork

The churches chancel had three altars. The main altar has at its centre the image of Our Lady of the Mount holding the child Jesus. Above it is a picture of the coronation of the Virgin Mary, and below that a picture of Our Lady of Assumption. At the base of the retable are the busts of St. Vincent with a ship and St. Lawrence with a gridiron, the symbol of his martyrdom. The collateral altar is dedicated to St. Anthony.

The nave of the chapel is covered by a barrel vaulted ceiling as is the chancel. However, the breadth of the chancel is less than that of the nave. The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady and its retable is divided into eight sections. In the central niche is a statue of Our Lady of the Mount holding the Baby Jesus, above this is a picture of the Coronation of the BVM and below is Our Lady of Assumption. The picture on the side panels and those on the main altar depict various aspects of the life of Our Lady.

At the base of the retable are two busts, one being St. Vincent who is depicted with a ship and the other is St. Lawrence who is depicted with a gridiron, which is the symbol of his martyrdom. The sub-altars are dedicated to St. Anthony of Lisboa and St. Anthony the Hermit. At the angle of these altars are miniatures of the devil and an inscription in Latin, which translated, reads “my sins are always before me”.

Monte Music Festival

Organized by the Fundacao Oriente in collaboration with the Kala Academy, this festival aims to integrate Indian and Western forms of Classical music. Held in February every year, the festival attracts both performers and music buffs from across various countries and fields. A real must see for any music lover

Trivia

This humble chapel has been the backdrop for many a Bollywood film shoot.

Definitions

·         Mannerist – A style of architecture which rose up in response to the Renaissance Movement, and used architectural forms to emphasize solid and spatial relationships, for eg. Pilasters that stretch from the top to bottom of a façade.

·         Loggia – An exterior gallery or corridor, usually on an upper level whose exterior face is exposed to the elements, usually having only columns or arches for support.

# Church of Mae de Deus (Saligao)

Stark, stern and yet with a glamorous charm all its own, the Mae de Deus or Mother of God Church is a breath-taking site. With its Gothic spires and pristine white walls, it reminds one of a fairytale castle. Situated amidst picturesque surroundings of the typical Goan countryside, this Church at Saligao, which is situated in the Bardez taluka, was built in 1873. It is amongst the finest in the Gothic style and is attractively illuminated at night.

Claim to fame :

It is the finest example of Neo-Gothic architecture in Goa. It houses the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus (Mother of God) which was brought from the ruins of the convent of Mae de Deus at Old Goa.
 

Timings

The church is also open to tourists every day from
9.00am to 12.30pm and from 3.00pm to 5.00pm.
 
Mass Timings

Mon to Sat – 7.00am and 8.00am
Sun – 7.00am, 8.30am and 9.30am

Must View

·         Miraculous statue of Mae de Deus     Read more+

·         Neo-Gothic architecture of the Church, unique amongst the Goan churches

·         Illuminated view of the church after sundown     Read more+

·         Statue of Mae de Deus in the church courtyard

·         Gilded and carved ornamentation inside the church

History, Construction and Architecture

The church dedicated to the Mother of God or Our Lady came to be built at Bardez in the 19^th Century. Its foundation stone was laid on 7^th February 1867 and the Saligao Church was inaugurated on November 26, 1873.
The Church building is stunningly distinctive with its jutting spires, each crowned with a cross. It has buttresses supporting its exterior walls and belfry. The courtyard of the Church contains another statue of the Mae de Deus, this one made of black stone.

Interior and Artwork

The interiors of the church are similarly imposing. In addition to the miraculous statue of the Mae de Deus which reposes near the altar, there is an altar stone which was also taken from the convent in Daujim. In addition to the main altar, this church has six sub-altars.
Read more+

Feast

The first Sunday of May is celebrated as the church feast, the feast of Our Lady, the Mother of God. The feast day itself is preceded by a nine day novena, the celebrations and Masses on each day being organized by a different ward of Saligao. Each day, a small group of children are dressed up as angels and they dance before Our Lady and pay homage to her with offerings of flowers. After the novena the celebrations are continued with music and short skits, plays or dances performed by the parishioners.

On the feast day, celebrations are taken a few notches up with a grand procession followed by a firework display. Previously, there was also a dance which was organized by the Saligao Sports Club, called ‘Foxes Night’.

Legend and Lore

Some sources claim that the neighbouring parishes objected to the Saligao church receiving the honour of having the miraculous Mae de Deus statue kept within it. There was even talk of protests and marches, to the dismay of Fr. Camilo Teodorio Rodrigues, the administrator of the church who did not want to give up the statue. The issue was finally settled by the Government Order passed on the 20^th of June, 1865 which was approved by the King of Portugal.

Made possible by the endeavours of the faithful parishioners of Saligao and a singularly beautiful monument for the ages, do stop by this church as you pass it on the Chogm road from Panaji, if only to take a few pictures of its fantastical architecture.

# Church of Our Lady of Rosary

Standing atop the Monte Santo (Holy Hill) and keeping a benevolent watch over Old Goa, is the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. Beautiful in its austereness and simplicity this church is one of the only buildings in Goa that attests to the introduction of Renaissance architecture, brought to Goa by the Portuguese. It is perhaps the most Portuguese of all the Goan churches as it was not influenced by the Goan architectural solutions, which though they have their roots in the Portuguese tradition, have their own unique standing. Additionally, the building remains largely unchanged.

Timings : Open seven days a week from 9 am to 5.30 pm.

Claim to fame : 

The church bears an inscription on the conquest of Goa by Afonso de Albuquerque in 1510. Legend has it that Afonso de Albuquerque surveyed the attack of Adil Shah’s army from this hill and vowed to build a church there to give thanks for his victory.
The church of Our Lady of Rosary is also revered for its connection to St. Francis Xavier, who often taught catechism here when it was first built.

Must See :

·         Tombstone of Garcia De Sa & Cenotaph of Dona Catarina

Set on the floor in front of the altar is the tombstone of the Portuguese governor Garcia De Sa, and set into the northern wall of the chancel is the alabaster Mausoleum, in the Persian style of his wife, Catarina a Piro, who was the first Portuguese woman to arrive in Goa. According to the legend they were married by St Francis Xavier as she lay dying, in fact described as “in Articulo Mortis” which means at the moment of death. Her cenotaph is slightly protruding from the wall and bears on it an inscription in Portuguese, which translated means “Here lies Dona Caterina, wife of Garcia de Sa, who requests the readers of these lines to beg God’s mercy on her soul”

·         Towers andbuttresses

·         Chapels andretables

·         Carvings of the main altar

·         Granite baptismal font

History, Construction and Architecture

Although de Albuquerque vowed to build a church in this spot when he saw his armies marching to victory, this church was not built in his lifetime. He originally constructed a hermitage on this site, which was later converted into the church which stands here today. The construction began in 1544 and took six years to complete.

The architecture of this church presents features of the classic Gothic style along with Portuguese-Manueline style while the Renaissance influence is reflected in the interior vaults and decoration of the retables. In 1931, the Archaeological Committee of Goa placed a marble slab on the walls of the church with the inscription: “From this height, Afonso de Albuquerque watched the re-conquest of Goa on 25/11/1510.”

The church is built of laterite and plastered with lime mortar. The design of this church is exceedingly simple and it has been beautifully restored. The only decorations on its exterior are simple rope twist devices which celebrate the seafaring ways of the Portuguese colonists. These ropes wrapped cornice-style around the towers are very typical of the Manueline style.

The three-storied tower façade of this church is outstanding. There are buttresses built on the front corners of the church, thus giving it the look of a fortress, an air which is only enhanced by its high windows. There are two towers on the corners of the nave. The south tower contains a winding staircase that gives access to the “high choir” on the upper floor of this tower. The North tower contains within it a baptismal chapel on the lower level. The upper level is distinguished by slender columns and has round arched windows in which bells are hung.
The portico of this church is two-storied. The Gothic influences are clearly visible in the rib of the portico the roof is tiled and supported by wooden rafters.

Interior and Artwork

Like its exterior, the interior of this church is also plain. The reredos (screen or decoration behind the altar) is ungilded but beautifully carved.

Set on the floor in front of the altar is the tombstone of the Portuguese governor Garcia De Sa, and set into the northern wall of the chancel is the alabaster Mausoleum, in the Persian style of his wife, Catarina a Piro, who was the first Portuguese woman to arrive in Goa. According to the legend they were married by St Francis Xavier as she lay dying, in fact described as “in Articulo Mortis” which means at the moment of death. Her cenotaph is slightly protruding from the wall and bears on it an inscription in Portuguese, which translated means “Here lies Dona Caterina, wife of Garcia de Sa, who requests the readers of these lines to beg God’s mercy on her soul”

The church is constructed in the orthodox, cruciform fashion with a square apse (the apse is a semicircular recess covered with a hemispherical vault or semi-dome. In Romanesque, Byzantine and Gothic Christian abbey, cathedral and church architecture, the term is applied to a semi-circular or polygonal termination of the main building at the liturgical east end). It as a single nave ,with two chapels opening onto the nave (main body of the church), one in front of, and the other next to the apse. The arches of the chapels open onto the nave at varying heights. The nave once had a ceiling; however this structure collapsed in 1897, damaging the vaults of the chapels. The nave now has an open-tiled roof.The chapels and the chancel (or sanctuary) have star-form rib vaults. The chapels have retables representing the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Christ.
The narthex and the north wall of the church have very similar archways, which are distinctively Renaissance in nature. The retables of the chancel altars and the nave are also very classical in nature.
The church contains three altars. The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary and shows Hindu influences in its carvings of mangoes, cashews and flowers. The baptismal font in this church has been carved out of a single granite slab.
One of the bells, made by Peter Dias Bocarro in 1618, bears an inscription, which translated reads, “Mary was assumed into heaven. The angels rejoice and bless the Lord in praise. Hail Mary, full of grace! The Lord is with thee. Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb Jesus. Holy Mary.”

# Church of St. Ana

Dedicated to St.Ana, it is a remarkable piece of ancient Christian architecture, situated in Talaulim. Built in 1695 on the bank of the Siridao river, its unique feature are the hollow walls through which people could walk in secrecy for confession.

# Church of St. Francis of Assisi

Journeying west from the Se Cathedral, one comes upon the Old Palace of the Archbishop, which serves as a conduit from the cathedral to the Church of St. Francis of Assisi.Thanks in part to its renovation in 1665, this graceful building displays a charming mix of architectural styles and intricately carved artwork. The adjoining convent has long since been converted into the Archaeological Museum and is worth a visit in its own right. No tour of Old Goa could be complete without a visit to this twofold attraction.

Claim to Fame

The blending of Portuguese-Manueline style portal from the older structure into the later Tuscan style building, to produce a unique specimen of architecture. The adjoining convent houses the Museum of Archaeological History.

Timings

The Museum is open 7 days a week and its timings are as follows:
9.00am – 12.30 and 3.00pm to 6.30
The Church is open 6 days a week and the Timings are as follows
Mon to Sat – 7.30am to 6.30pm

Must View List

·         Statue of Our lady of Miracles in the niche in the façade, brought over from Sri Lanka

·         Octagonal towers

·         Manueline architecture of the portal

Built in 1665, the new church retained the portal of the old structure which was in the Portuguese–Manueline style. It is a unique architectural specimen, of this style in the country.

·         Paintings on the interior walls depicting scenes from the Bible

·         Statues of St. Francis of Assisi and Jesus on the altar

·         Baroque and Corinthian carvings on the altar itself

·         Wood Paintings depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi

·         Frescoes with floral decorations

History, Construction and Architecture

The original shrine, constructed by the Fransican monks in 1521 and subsequently enlarged, was showing signs of decay, so a new church was constructed and dedicated to the Holy Spirit. Built in 1665, it retained the portal of the old structure which was in the Portuguese–Manueline style. It is a unique architectural specimen, of this style in the country.The façade of the church is built in the Tuscan style of architecture with only the portal being Manueline since it is a relic from the older structure. The façade is also distinctive in that it is flanked by octagonal towers.

In 1517, eight Franciscan monks landed in Goa. They immediately set to work and built themselves a small chapel. This chapel was completed in 1521 and dedicated to the Holy Ghost. This building was later expanded upon and later consecrated as a church in 1602. However, it was not in good repair and it was later torn down and reconstructed in 1665.The church is built of laterite blocks, covered with lime plaster. The original Manueline entrance way is flanked by two octagonal towers. The façade of the church is three tiered and has a small niche which houses the statue of Our Lady of Miracles which was brought from Jaffna in Sri Lanka.

Interior and Art

In contrast to the simple outer façade the interiors of the church are unabashedly and lavishly decorated in the Baroque style using Corinthian influences. The highlight is the main altar, which has fine examples of this kind of work.The altar is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi and has above it a huge statue of the saint, and another of Jesus. These statues display excellent features and attention to detail. Flanking the altar are superb paintings on wood depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi and the history of the Seraphic Order.Although this church is not as large as the illustrious Se Cathedral, it is beautiful nonetheless. It is a single-nave church with three small chapels on either side of the nave. There are two altars besides the main one, which is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. Behind the altar are rooms which form the sacristy and there is a belfry to the north of the altar. The chapels and the gallery which runs around the top of the church are separated by internal buttresses.
 
Designed in a Baroque style the interior of the church is richly decorated. As you enter, on the left is an intricately carved wooden pulpit, decorated with floral patterns. The interior of the church itself is lavishly decorated with paintings depicting scenes from the Bible. The internal buttress walls have been carved with floral frescoes in the Indo-Portuguese Baroque style.There are inscribed tombstones set into the stone floor of the church, many of which are worthy of note as they have been intricately carved. The main altar is carved and gilded, and beneath the statues of St. Francis of Assisi and Jesus is inscribed the vows of the saint “poverty, humility and obedience”. Beneath the main vault, is a richly carved niche containing the tabernacle, used for the repose of the Blessed Sacrament. The tabernacle is supported by sculptures of the Four Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Convent and Museum of Archaeological History

The Convent was built by the Franciscan friars around 1527 and later expanded. Today it houses the museum, established by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1964. Valuable sculptures and icons of pre-Portuguese era and portraits of Viceroys and Governor- Generals are displayed here.This westward facing church has watched patiently over the faithful and seen the sun set on the Portuguese reign in India. The convent having been at first the simple living quarters of the Franciscan monks, then a convent and now a museum, is a timeless place, well worth a visit.

# Nunnery of Santa Monica in Goa

Standing atop the Monte Santo, resolutely facing north is the Nunnery of Santa Monica. Like a grand old matriarch, the building stands not just with grace and dignity but with formidable beauty and an air of insurmountable defenses; tenderly sheltering those within whilst repelling the whims and fancies of the fickle, shallow world.This nunnery in Goa is named for St. Monica who was the mother of St. Augustine, and it could once accommodate more than 250 inmates. It was a sanctuary not only for nuns, but also for widows willing to devote themselves to the service of God, and for the temporary protection of well-born ladies whose husbands had travelled to far off lands on military conquests or expeditions.

Claim to fame :

The convent enjoyed the patronage of Royalty and was the first nunnery in the east. The convent houses the Miraculous or Weeping Cross in one of the chapels.
 

Timings

The Nunnery, which is now the Museum of Christian Art is open from 9.30 am to 5pm everyday

History, Construction and Architecture

This convent, the Nunnery of Santa Monica was sanctioned in 1598 and the Archbishop Aleixo de Menezes laid the foundation stone in 1606. Construction was completed in 1627. Built like a fortress, this convent is significant for its massive walls and buttresses. The convent has a vast courtyard with a cloister. Its three stories have numerous cells and halls. Massive standing, rather than flying, buttresses characterize the exterior of the convent.
 
On Christmas Eve 1636, a massive fire partially destroyed the building but it was restored by Fr. Diogo de Santa Anna, who was the then administrator and “spiritual father” of the convent.The architecture of the Church and convent reflect a combination of the Tuscan, Corinthian and composite styles. The façade of the Church has two main doorways with basalt frames. The three arched buttresses are solidly constructed and were a later addition to the structure. The road leading to the tip of Monte, runs through these buttresses.The façade of the church prominently features a statue of Santa Monica as well as the symbol of the Holy Ghost. The doors also feature granite carvings of a Caravel, which is a small, highly manoeuvrable Portuguese sailing ship, and a dragon.
 
The façade of the convent bears a carving of the symbols of the Eucharist, the Paschal Lamb and Holy Ghost along with an inscription. The convent itself is quadrangular. It has three stories and is built around a courtyard, called the Vale de Lirios, which means lily of the valley. The courtyard also contained a cloister. In the centre of this courtyard was a well, known as the Font de Salvador.The walls of the nunnery are massive and solidly constructed. They were said to be so strong that the relative strength of other buildings was measured against them, “my house is well-built, and it is as strong as the walls of Santa Monica”.

Interior and Artwork

The convent itself is massive and consists of three floors. There were various cells and rooms to accommodate the residents of the convent. The Church of the Weeping Cross is attached to the south of the convent. It has four altars; the main one is dedicated to St. Monica, the others to St. Augustine the Bom Jesus and the Miraculous Cross. The vaults over some of the spaces were enriched with scenes from the bible, similar to that of the Sistine chapel in Rome.On the 8^th of February 1636, the statue of Christ on the Cross of Inside is said to have opened its eyes whilst blood flowed from the wounds as if it were living. The same miracle took place once more, four days later in the presence of the Viceroy, Archbishop and other high ranking church officials. The Archdiocese of Goa celebrates its festival on the 27^th of November.

The convent contained within it eight dormitories. They were Madre de Deus which had eight cells; Santa Anna which had sixteen Divino Salvador which had eleven; Santo Agostinho which had sixteen, Sepulcro, Belem, Senora de Candeia and De Cima. These dormitories were only for the inmates of the convent and there were separate, special dormitories for the servants.The ground floor of the convent had a gate known as the Porta de Fora, or the outer door. Through this, visitors were allowed to talk with the nuns. This opened onto the apartments call Aposentos de Portiero and Locutorio de Fora. Beyond this was the Portaria de clausara, the door of the cloister and the Casa de Rodo, and a nun remained in charge of the keys. The door between these two was the Porta de probicao and no one was allowed to enter without the express written permission of the Bishop. The penalty for violating this rule was instant excommunication.
 
The interior of the Church of the Weeping Cross blends the Doric and composite styles of architecture. The image of the Christ which was said to have wept blood was previously kept in the choir loft, but now occupies a place of honour in a tribune in the nave of the church.The main altar of the church has magnificent retable divided in three. In the first section stands a statue of St. Augustine, flanked by St. Thomas of Vila Nova and St. Ambrosius, the second section has a statue of St. Monica, to whom the altar is consecrated, and she has on either side of her St. Rita and St. Melania and the third section has a representation of Calvary with the saints Peter and Paul on either side.The pulpit too is artistically carved with sculptures of Our Lady of Piety, St. Augustine and two Augustinian bishops. On either side of the altar are carved angels, interestingly enough, with cashew shaped earrings.

Life of the Nuns

The nuns in this convent were cloistered and lived a hard and frugal existence. They were allowed no contact with the outside world and even family visits were rarely permitted, and then only under strict supervision.They were divided into two groups within the convent. The nuns of the black veil were only those ladies of Portuguese descent whilst the nuns of the white veil were of native Goan descent. Although the government recommended that this distinction be abolished they were largely ignored.

The nuns had a solitary and frugal existence within the walls of the cloister. After a novice entered the convent her hair was shorn before she took up the veil. Family members were only allowed two visits a month, at that no male family members apart from fathers, brothers and paternal uncles, and all the visits had to be supervised. They were not allowed any visitors on communion days, which were twice a week, feast days and other days of obligation or during the periods of Advent and Lent.Along with meditation and prayer the nuns also occupied themselves with needlework, gardening and cooking. They made vestments for the priests as well as altar cloths and banners. It is said that one such banner was made for the Murmagao fort to give blessings, strength and courage during the Dutch invasion. The art of making artificial flowers is also attributed to them.
 
The nuns were accomplished cooks and made preserves of jams and jellies as well as syrups and sweets. Their gardens too were beautiful and well-tended, growing various types of fruits and flowers. The only male visitors, besides the close family members were the doctor, in case of illness and the Archbishop who visited the convent annually. The nuns even heard mass only from the choir loft, from where they could observe the mass without being seen.The nuns also had penitence rooms where they practiced various disciplinary techniques including self-flagellation with ropes or leather straps.Their numbers dwindled through the years until the convent was closed as a nunnery after the last sister residing there died, and was reinstated as a church in 1968.

Legend and Lore

One story, which has in fact been attested to by many and recorded in the Secretariat of the government of Goa, states that Sr. Maria de Jesus died on the convent premises, at the age of 78 with stigmata present on her hands and feet. This was apparently verified by the physicians of that time.

Today this convent has been converted into the Museum of Christian Art, whilst the old Monastery of Santa Monica houses the Mater Dei Institute, for the formation of the faith for women from all religious congregations in India.

On your way to the museum, it is well worth it to stop by the chapel of the Weeping cross, and to admire the massive and formidable building which has stood the test of time, relentlessly guarding its inmates from the vices and foibles of life in the outer world.

# Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

Not all of Goa’s myriad ancient churches are concentrated in Velha Goa. A notable exception is the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church which is located in Panaji, the capital city of Goa. It is possessed of a singularly distinctive appearance thanks to the double flights of steps that zigzag across the hillside on which it is built.True to its name, the façade of this church is painted an immaculate, sparkling white. To the untrained eye, this might even belie the actual age and antiquity of this church.

Claim to Fame

This church houses the ancient bell that was removed from the Augustinian ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Grace. This bell is considered to be the second largest of its kind in Goa, surpassed only by the Golden Bell which resides in the Se Cathedral.
 

Timings

Being a functioning Parish, you can hear Mass at this church at the following times
Sunday – 7.00am, 8.15am, 9.30am, 10.30am and 5.30pm
The church is also open to the public every day from 9.00am – 12.30pm and 3.30pm – 7.30pm

Must View

·         The Augustinian bell housed in the main belfry.

This bell was rescued from the ruins of the Augustinian church of Our Lady of Grace, on the Monte Santo and initially installed in the chapel at the Fort Aguada. However the decision was later taken to install it in this, a more prominent church, instead. The bell was so heavy (2250kgs) that they needed to reinforce the structure before it could bear the added load. It is now housed in a tall belfry atop the church and there is a sign attached to the rope which asks that the bell not be rung.

·         Distinctive zigzagging stairway

The stairway was modelled after that of the Bom Jesus de Braga, Portugal with one middle and four side landings arranged in perfect symmetry. The middle landing has a statue of Our Lady on a 5m high plinth that was installed in 1954.

·         Two towers on either side of the façade

·         View of Panaji from the church steps

·         View of the church after sunset when the façade is lit by a multitude of lights

·         Statue of St. Francis Xavier, in the centre of the reredos

·         Carved altars and pulpits

·         Marble statues of St. Peter and St. Paul which flank the altar

·         Chapel of St. Francis Xavier

History, Construction and Architecture

The original construction on this site is believed to have been a chapel, built in 1541, so that sailors could give thanks to God for delivering them safely to Goa and avoiding the perils of the sea, before continuing their journey to Velha Goa.This chapel was later rebuilt, in 1619, into the church that stands there today. The architecture of the present church is a beautiful blend of the Portuguese-Baroque and Goan styles. The imposing façade is distinctive with its two towers and even taller belfry. It can be seen from a great distance, and is sometimes known as the ‘crown’ of Panaji.To reach the church, you have to climb 78 steps. This zigzagging double staircase was a later addition, added in 1871 after the land in front of the church was reclaimed, at the same time the pediment and belfry was strengthened in preparation for the installation of the heavy Augustinian bell.

Interior and Art

The interior of this church is comparatively simple, especially when one compares it to the profusely decorated reredoses and carvings that one sees in the churches in Old Goa. However, the decoration has been skilfully and gracefully executed both on the main altar and on the two sub-altars which flank it.The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, known as Nossa Senhora da Immaculada Conceicao in Portuguese. The altar on the right is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary while the one on the left is dedicated to the Crucifixion of Christ.

The church is laid out in the orthodox cruciform fashion with a nave and a transept. The main altar has a bas-relief carving of the Last Supper of Jesus with his Apostles. The pulpit has a depiction of the descending of the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove. The main altar is backed by a fantastically carved and gilded reredos, where the statue of St. Francis Xavier enjoys pride of place.The two sub-altars are also noteworthy for the carving and gilt work and they are flanked by statues of St. Peter and St. Paul. In the southern part of the transept is the chapel of St. Francis Xavier, which is very popular amongst the visitors to this church.

Festival

On the 8th of December this church celebrates the feast of the Immaculate Conception with great pomp and fervour. The celebrations are preceded by a nine day novena to Our Lady. The church is decorated with a profusion of lights and the vaulted ceiling is strung with blue and white flowers which reflect the colour scheme of the church (and of Our Lady).After the feast mass the people go in procession with a brass band and the candle sellers come out in force, to sell their wares to the faithful desirous of making offerings to Our Lady to ask for her intercession. After the procession there is often a firework display while the band continues to play festive mandos and fados. People enjoy themselves, walking amongst the stalls selling miniature statuettes, souvenirs, garments, food and drink, to name just a few.

Trivia

If you find the façade of this church familiar, that may be because it has been the backdrop for many a Bollywood movie shoot.Poised as it is on the hilltop, this church has been variously described as the ‘Crown of Panaji’, a ‘great big wedding cake’ like structure and ‘a bride waiting at the altar. One cannot seem to go anywhere in Panaji without passing, or at least seeing this church. However, for the discerning tourist, it is well worth a closer look.

# Se Cathedral, Goa

Standing with its gracious façade facing east to welcome each new day, and to the west of the great square Terreiro de Sabaio, Se Cathedral is the most imposing of all the churches at Old Goa, its vaulted interior overwhelming visitors with its sheer grandeur. Se Cathedral Goa, is dedicated to St. Catherine

Timings
Open everyday from 7.30 am to 6 pm.
Mass Timings
Weekdays – 7.30 am and 6.00 pm
Sunday – 7.15 am, 10.00 am and 4.00 pm

Claim to fame :

The Se Cathedral wast built to commemorate the victory of Afonso Albuquerque, which was won on the feast of St. Catherine of Alexandria, this edifice is the largest church in Asia. It is the Cathedral of the Archbishop of Goa.

With its superb Iberian façade, soaring ceilings, fabulous mosaic work, intricate wood and gilded carvings, the Se Cathedral, also sometimes called St. Catherine’s cathedral is an absolute must-see for any visitor in Goa.

Must See :

·         The existing bell tower containing the Golden Bell

·         The baptismal font used by St. Francis Xavier

·         The main altar with its gilded reredos depicting scenes from the life of St. Catherine of Alexandria as well as her martyrdom.

·         The Chapel of the Cross of Miracles, where a vision of the Christ was seen on the plain and unadorned cross in 1919.

·         The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament with its skillfully carved and gilded wall and ceiling.

·         The wooden filigree screens separating the chapels from the nave.

·         The six additional altars in the transept with the paintings depicting the lives of the saints

·         The 18^th century organ housed in one of the galleries.

·         The statuary and paintings along the walls and in the niches of the pillars, including statues of St. Francis Xavier, St Ignatius of Loyola, St. Peter, St Paul and St. Christopher.

History, Construction and Architecture

The construction of Se Cathedral in Goa started in 1562 and ended in 1652. The hundred years spent on this construction, have indeed been well worth it, as the proud cathedral still stands tall and almost unblemished today. Built on a raised laterite plinth and covered in lime plaster, this cathedral measures 250 feet (76 m) in length, 181 feet (55 m) in breadth whilst its frontispiece stands 115 feet (35 m) high

Interior and Artwork

The interior is laid out in a traditional cruciform shape, even though the exterior appears rectangular. The interior architecture is Corinthian. The main altar is dedicated to St Catherine of Alexandria. Besides the main altar there are eight chapels along the sides of the nave and six altars at the transept.Pope Pius the XII conferred upon this shrine the Golden Rose, which is a gold ornament, a token of reverence and affection. The ornament itself has since been placed on the tomb of St. Francis Xavier.Visitors to this shrine should make it a point to see the magnificent reredos above the main altar whose six gilded panels depict the life of Saint Catherine, the fifteen communion tables, dedicated to Our Lady of Three Needs, Our Lady of Hope and Our Lady of Anguish and the baptismal font, built in 1532 which was used by St. Francis Xavier to baptize converts. Also worth seeing, is the chapel of the Cross of Miracles, where a vision of the Christ has been said to have appeared in 1919.

St. Catherine of Alexandria

Usually numbered among early women martyrs, Catherine of Alexandria holds a special place among the prophetic saints in the church because of her role as philosophical defender of the faith. She is also the patroness of Christian philosophers besides being the patroness of the City of Old Goa, aka Velha Goa or Goa Velha.In Church art, St. Catherine of Alexandria, is depicted wearing a crown, (denoting her royal Birth), holding a book, (denoting knowledge), and steering a spiked wheel (denoting her martyrdom). The reason for this is tradition is to denote the notable epochs in her life.

Legend and Lore

Contrary to the idea that this chapel was built using funds from the Royal Treasury, some sources instead claim that it was built using money from the sale of properties that were impounded by the government.The Cross of Miracles (Khuris Milagre) is also credited with phenomenal power and significance some legends state that it is constantly, if slowly, growing, whilst others claim to have seen water spring from the rock upon which the cross is built.This Cathedral in Goa is not only worth a visit in its own right, but it is also convenient to several other tourist spots. The convent which adjoined the cathedral has been converted into an Archaeological Museum which is open to the public and the world famous Bom Jesus Basilica, lies just on the other side of the square. Small wonder then, that no visit to Goa could be considered complete without gazing at the awe-inspiring art and architecture of this most revered cathedral.

Se Cathedral Goa, is dedicated to St. Catherine

# St. Cajetan’s Church

Undisputedly one of the most beautiful churches in Goa, this gracious old building stands in Old Goa, northeast of the Se Cathedral. Although the Church was originally dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence, it is more commonly known as the Church of St. Cajetan, who was a contemporary of St. Francis Xavier and the founder of the Order of monks called the Theatines.This is probably due to their dedication and the lengths they went to, to get the church built in the first place.

Claim to Fame

It was built to have architectural similarities with St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. It also has superb examples of the Corinthian style.

Timings

The church is open seven days a week from 9.00 am to 7.00pm.

Must View List

·         Statues of St. Peter, St. Paul, St. John and St. Matthew niched in the façade

·         Hemispherical dome, reminiscent of St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome

·         Twin quadrangular belfry towers

·         Four pillars with arches supporting the Cupola

·         Verse from the gospel of Matthew inscribed around the cupola

The cupola has, inscribed around it, the following verse in Latin, “Quaerite primum regnum Dei et haec omnia adjicientur vobis” which in English translates to “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33)

·         Main altar with the beautifully carved altarpiece depicting Our Lady of Divine Providence

·         Paintings of the life of St. Cajetan adorning the walls and pillars

History, Construction and Architecture

This church was built by Italian Monks of the Order of Theatines in 1665. It’s crowned with a huge hemispherical dome, on the pattern of the Roman Basilica of St. Peter. However, instead of two cupolas it exhibits two quadrangular towers.The façade exhibits superb examples of Corinthian architecture. Four statues of St. Paul, St. Peter, St. John the evangelist and St. Matthew wrought in basalt are niched within it. It also has the words, “Domus mea, domus oration/s” which means, “My House is a House of Prayer” etched boldly across the portal.Within the compound of the church is an even more ancient arch with pillars covered in Hindu carvings. These are believed to the only remaining part of the Palace of Adil Shah, Sultan of Bijapur.
 

The construction of the Church and convent began in 1655 and was completed in 1661. The church is built of laterite blocks covered with lime plaster. Although small compared to some of the other Goan churches, it is heralded as being the epitome of art and craftsmanship. The sparkling white façade speaks eloquently as to the European origins of the churches architecture. In keeping with Theatine architectural practices, this church has no towers, but instead boasts two turrets which act as the belfries (bell towers).The frontispiece of the church has Corinthian columns, two stories high supporting a triangular pediment. The cupola is clearly visible, crowned with a lantern. There are also four ornamental niches in the façade containing the statues of the apostles.

Interior and Art

The interior of this church, whilst also Corinthian, shows Baroque, Rococo and Goan influences in the intricately carved and gilded work. There are eight columns that divide the church into a nave with six vaulted lateral chapels.The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence, the patroness of the church. Underneath the altar there is a crypt with a vault resting on four pillars. There are also six more altars, three on each side of the main one.Beneath the dome , there is a 22 meters deep well devised by Fr. Francisco Manco , the architect, in order to provide an outlet for the waters oozing out of the subsoil, which had caused the walls to collapse twice.
 

As you enter the church, there are two fonts containing holy water, which once stood in the cathedral. The story goes that Cosimo III, Duke of Tuscany, donated Carrara marble fonts for holy water to this church, but these were later removed to the cathedral.The church is laid out in the shape of a Greek cross, although it appears oblong from the exterior. The eight columns divide the nave from the chapels on either side, and the four central pillars support the cupola with beautifully carved arches. Inscribed around the cupola is a verse in Latin, which reads “Quaerite primum regnum Dei et haec omnia adjicientur vobis” which in English translates to “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). The windows set around the dome, ensure that the church is always well lit.
 
Below the cupola can be seen a covered well, which was either part of an earlier structure, most likely believed to be a mansion, or strategically placed there by the architect to deal with water seepage from the sub-soil. There is also a crypt which is the final resting place of many of the Theatine friars. Set into a multitude of niches around the vault are carved statues of various saints.The main altar is profusely carved and backed by a gilded reredos. This reredos is unique in that unlike most of the others seen in Goa, it tapers towards the ceiling and is crowned by a sun. The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence. There is a statue of the Nossa Senhora de Divina Providencia seated within the reredos holding a host and chalice. At her feet are two angels and the legend “Comedite panem meum, et bibite vinum quod miscui vobis” the English translation of which is “Eat my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled for you” (Proverbs 9:5)
 
In addition to the main altar there are six more altars, three on either side. These altars have been profusely carved and gilded in the baroque style with twisted shafts and figures of angels. The three on the left are dedicated to St. Clare, the Holy Family and Our Lady of Piety; whilst those on the right are dedicated to St. Agnes, St John and St. Cajetan. These altars also have painting done on canvas, many of which depict the life of St. Cajetan. The paintings are of the Italian School that was popular at the time.Another unusual feature of this church is that it has not one, but two sacristies which are located on either side of the main altar. It is also said that the embalmed bodies of the Portuguese Governors were kept here till they could be sent back to Portugal. The church was used for this purpose until 1842.

Convent of St. Cajetan

Built on a much smaller scale than the church the convent is nevertheless an imposing structure. Its closure in 1835 forced sixteen Theatines to leave. It was then used as a residence for the Governors of Goa when they came to Old Goa for religious functions. Later still the gallery of portraits of the Viceroys and Governors was transferred here along with the ‘Museu da India Portuguesa’.Today however, the convent has once again been repurposed and in some part returned to its roots. It now houses the Pope Pius X institute for the Pastoral training of priests.

Legend and Lore

The story goes that three Italian Theatine monks were sent to India by Pope Urban VIII to spread Christianity in Golconda. Not being allowed to preach there, they came to Goa in 1640 and soon thereafter started the construction of a Hospital on the Monte Santo between the Nunnery of Santa Monica and the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. However, as they were foreigners, the Viceroy of Goa stopped the construction and evicted them from Goa in 1645.Undeterred, the monks made their way to Portugal and petitioned the king himself representing the need for the hospital and asking that they be allowed to build it. King Dom Joao IV was impressed by their dedication and gave them his permission. They returned to Goa and built their hospital in 1650. Later, in 1655, they started building the Church and the convent which was attached to it.
 
The Theatines are also credited as being the ones who advocated that Holy Communion should be distributed to all Goan Catholics irrespective of their social class or caste. Prior to this Communion was reserved only for the higher classes of Indian Catholics. The Theatines demanded that the Archbishop convene a public conference and put forward many arguments from Scripture to support their convictions.An unrivalled depiction of beauty and grace, this church is yet another must see on a visit to Old Goa. The atmosphere is one of cool and collected reflection as it watches over its people, witnessing days stretch into years in the vast ocean of time.

# Rachol Seminary

Situated just off the banks of the Zuari river, 5 kilometers from Margao in South Goa and built in 1574—1610, this majestic seminary is a centre of learning in philosophy and theology.

# Reis Magos Church in Verem

“Reis Magos” is Portuguese for the Three Magi, otherwise known as the Three Wise Men. Like these esteemed gentlemen, in order to reach this church one must stray off the beaten path. The little hamlet of Reis Magos, is the home of not one, but two famous landmarks, the Reis Magos Church and the Reis Magos fort. Located on the banks of the river Mandovi, the sparkling white façade of this church is easily visible from the opposite banks. To reach it, however, one must turn off the road leading to the tourist hotspots of Calangute and Baga. A little turn just past the Verem Bazaar past the Hindu tree shrine will lead you to this church.Notwithstanding its slightly out of the way location, this church was once the residence of all Catholic Dignitaries and also a Mission Centre of the Franciscan order.

Timings

Open everyday – 6.00am to 11.00pm
 
Mass Timings

Weekdays – 7.30 am
Sundays – 7.30 am and 5.00pm

Claim to fame : 

It was the first church to be built in the Bardez Taluka, and posseses a multi-coloured wood relief of the Magi. It is also one of only three places in Goa which celebrates the Epiphany (Feast of the Three Kings) with processions and re-enactments.

Must View

·         Bas relief lions at the base of the steps showing Hindu influences in Portuguese architecture.

·         Shrine to Our Lady of Health, built in 1510 to commemorate the Portuguese victory that won them Bardez.

·         Carving of the Three Magi bearing their gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh for the Holy Babe.

·         Tomb of Dom Luis de Ataide, the famous Portuguese Viceroy

Dom Luis de Ataide, was a famous Portuguese warrior, who according to legend, accomplished the great feat in 1570, of holding at bay an army of 100,000 men and 2000 elephants for ten months, with a battalion of just 7000 men.

History, Construction and Architecture

The Reis Magos church was constructed in 1555 by the Franciscan Friars and was one of the earliest churches built in Goa. It also has the distinction of being the first to be built in the Bardez Taluka.Although the church was built in 1555, the entire interior was redone in 1771, and the towers were added around the year 1776. The church itself sits atop a graceful flight of steps at the base of which can be seen two carved lions reminiscent of Vijaynagar temple architecture.The length of the church runs along the Mandovi river. The breadth of the church has along it five doorways and Corinthian columns dividing the compartments of the façade. The church also displays a high, carved gable, decorated with scroll work and given added majesty by the presence of the Royal Insignia.Near the base of the steps is a small shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Health. This was erected on the spot to commemorate the victory of Afonso de Albuquerque over the outpost in 1510.

Interior and Artwork

The church is dedicated to St Jerome. The church interiors are quite impressive with the highlight being the multi-colored wood relief showing The Three Wise Men bearing gifts to the baby Jesus.The church contains a high main altar backed by an impressively carved reredos. Carved out of various coloured woods, the reredos depicts the Three Magi offering their gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh to the Infant Jesus and His kneeling Mother.The church contains the tombs of two Portuguese Viceroys, one of whom was Dom Luis de Ataide. An impressively carved slab in the corridor of the church marks his tomb. This church also contains the tomb of another Portuguese Viceroy. The inscriptions on these in both Portuguese and Latin are still clearly visible.

Festival

Every year on the 6^th of January, Reis Magos comes alive with the colorful “Festa dos Reis Magos” when the story of the Three Kings is re-enacted by the locals, with three youths playing the parts of the Magi. The locals celebrate the journey of the Three Kings who went to worship the Holy Infant Jesus with a procession that starts from the church and goes around the village.A beautiful and dignified church, the Reis Magos is definitely worth a visit, especially if you happen to be in Goa on the festival days, in which case you might like to join in the procession to relive the pilgrimage of the Three Magi, following the star to Bethlehem.

# Ruins of the Church of St. Augustine

Close to the Nunnery of Santa Monica, stands a lofty tower still proudly, defying the vagaries of the weather and the ravages time. This is the only surviving tower of the four that were once a part of the Church of St. Augustine. What was once perhaps the biggest Church in Goa is now a crumbling ruin, largely deserted, with its glory days behind it. However, this ruin still has some secrets left to divulge to those who are willing to dig deep enough to find them.
 
Claim to fame :

In 1986, UNESCO declared the ruins to be a World Heritage Site. It is also the site of the archaeological discovery of the remains of Queen Ketevan.
 
History, Construction and Architecture

This complex was built by the Augustinian order. It comprised the church of Our Lady of Grace, the Convent of Saint Augustine, The College of Populo, and The Seminary of St Guilherme.The church is dedicated to Our Lady of Grace. Its construction was started in 1597 and was completed around 1602. Originally comprising of four towers and a massive vault, the dimensions of this superb edifice placed it on par with the great imperial cathedrals of the Renaissance era.

The tower which still stands is built of laterite. This great structure stands four stories high. It was intended as a belfry. The ancient bell that once resided there has since been moved, first to the Fort Aguada and more recently to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church at Panaji, where it remains till today.The original Church of Our Lady of Grace once contained eight chapels, four altars and had a convent attached to it. Upon entering the church, there was a High altar backed by a richly carved retable, the whole structure being supported by soaring pillars, the vestiges of which remain visible today.The immense vault of the church collapsed in part due to its weight, and the nave of the church is now open to the sky. There was also an immense choir loft, capable of holding a large chorus of monks.The convent was built on three levels and once contained two cloisters, numerous corridors, pillars and galleries. The remains of a refectory i.e. dining hall, Guest house and Infirmary, all of which were very spacious, have also been found. It also had vast dormitories and numerous cells where the monks spent their day to day lives.

Abandonment and Ruination

In 1835, the Augustinians were expelled from Goa and as a result, the church was abandoned. In 1846, the main vault of the church collapsed and the convent rapidly decayed. Of all the majestic buildings, that once stood here, all that is left to see today is the belfry of the tower that soared 150 ft. high.

Legend and Lore

An old tale recounts how the vault of the church was problematic to construct and in fact fell down twice whilst being erected. The third time that it was put up, the architect, to show his confidence in his design stationed his only son within the church and ordered that a cannon be fired at the structure. Fortunately, his confidence was not misplaced, and the structure held.

Archaeological Heritage

Even though the original church lies in ruins, it becomes ever more apparent that it yet has unplumbed depths. Careful study beginning in 1990 has recently resulted in the discovery of the remains of the lost martyr, Queen Ketevan of Georgia.Queen Ketevan was the dowager queen of Kakheti, a kingdom of Georgia. After the death of her husband, the king, her kingdom was invaded by Shah Abbas I.Having easily conquered the kingdom, he took the Queen prisoner and she languished in Iran for almost a decade. In 1624, she was served an ultimatum by Shah Abbas I, she could convert to Islam and join his harem, or be tortured and executed. The Queen chose to die for her faith.

Accordingly, she was tortured by being stripped to the waist and having her flesh torn off with the use of red hot pincers before being strangled to death with a bow string. This took place on the 22^nd of September 1624.She was then buried, without ceremony. However she had, in her last days, befriended two Augustinian monks. These faithful men dug up her remains, smuggled them out of the country and brought them to Goa. An ancient Portuguese document suggests that the remains were entombed in a black sarcophagus and kept in the window embrasure of the convent of the Augustinian monks in Goa.However, when the convent and church were abandoned and fell into disrepair, many of the relics were looted and plundered. The remains of the good Queen were similarly thought to have been lost. However, recent archaeological excavations have resulted in the discovery of an arm bone and other bone fragments as well as the remains of a black box. After DNA testing, these bones are believed to be the remains of Queen Ketevan.There is little that can be seen today of the gracious and imposing church and monastery which once stood at this site, however, it is still considered worth a visit. Clambering over the old ruins causes one to reflect on the passage of time, and its vagaries.

 # Basilica of Bom Jesus

Don’t let its unassuming air fool you, the Bom Jesus Basilica is a World Heritage Monument, and has been christened so by UNESCO. Its un-plastered exterior appears at first glance to be inferior as compared to the sparkling facades of churches like the Se Cathedral, but this little Basilica is rich in art, architecture and history, and the relics of Saint Francis Xavier are enshrined here.

Timings

·         Masses are held regularly at the Bom Jesus Basilica, the timings are as follows

·         Sunday – 8.00am, 9.15am and 6.00pm in Konkani, 10.15am in English

·         Mon to Sat – 7.00am, 8.00am and 6.00pm

·         Mass is also held at the chapel of St. Francis Xavier on the 6th of every month at 10.00am. Holy hour is held on the first Friday of every month at 5.00pm followed by Mass.

·         If you do not want to hear Mass, the Basilica is open to the public for viewing and exploration at the following times,

·         Mon to Sat – 9.00am to 6.30pm

·         Sunday – 10.30am to 6.30pm

Claim to fame : Houses the relics of St. Francis Xavier and is the only Basilica in Goa.

Must View

·         Quadrangular pediment at the top of the un-plastered façade

·         Carved columns both inside and outside

·         Statue of St. Francis Xavier

·         Main altar with carvings and gilding

·         Gilded reredos with the statues of St. Ignatius and the Infant Jesus

The reredos has within it a large statue of St. Ignatius of Loyola protecting the Infant Jesus. His eyes are raised to a carved disc, once more bearing the Jesuit emblem of “IHS”. Above this medallion is a depiction of the Holy Trinity, i.e. The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit.

·         Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament

·         Chapel of St. Francis Xavier

On the southern side of the transept lies the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier. This chapel has carved and gilded columns and wood-carved floral decorations. This is where the relics of the saint are kept. There is a gorgeous silver statue placed in front of the silver casket where the body of St. Francis Xavier reposes

·         Sacristy – chest containing the Golden Rose

·         Painting of the relics of the saint

·         Paintings of the saints

·         Modern art gallery paintings, especially “The Last Judgement” and “Genesis”

The Basilica also contains a modern art gallery with paintings depicting various Biblical scenes. The gallery can be accessed using the stairs near the sacristy. It is one of the largest of its kind in Asia. It contains 36 paintings executed between the years 1973 and 1976. The artist was paid only for the materials used as his talent was given gratis, for the greater glory of God.

History, Construction and Architecture

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a monument typical of the classic forms of plane architecture, introduced by the Society of Jesus, otherwise known as the Jesuits. The façade, which is of granite, represents features of five styles of architecture: Roman, Ionic, Doric, Corinthian and Composite. It is a large single Nave structure built ( 1595-1605) and paid for with legacies left by Dom Jeronimo Mascarenhas, a wealthy Portuguese Captain of Cochin.It is the only monument with a façade not covered with plaster. The plaster was stripped off in 1970 by an over-zealous Portuguese conservationist who believed that this would help preserve the carvings on the façade better. Unfortunately, even though this was soon seen to be a false assumption, no one has put the plaster back.

The foundation stone for this church was laid on the 24^th of November, 1594. Archbishop Rev. Fr. Aleixo de Menezes consecrated the church, on its completion on the 15^th of May 1605. However, it was only raised to the status of “minor Basilica” in 1946.The three-storied structure stands 75ft wide and 78½ft tall. The façade of the church, though un-plastered, is a magnificent example of baroque architecture. It combines elements of Doric, Ionic and Corinthian design, and is divided into four parts.The lowest section has three doors set into it, a large one in the middle with two smaller ones flanking it. The second section has three square windows whose positioning corresponds to that of the doors. The third section has three circular windows whilst the last section forms a quadrangle, lavishly decorated with arabesque. This quadrangular pediment also has “IHS” carved into it. This is the Jesuit emblem and stands for “Iesus Hominum Salvator”, which is Latin for, “Jesus, Saviour of Men”. All the sections have carved basalt pillars. The basalt was mined from Bassein in the North of Goa.

Interior and Artwork

The interior of the church is a study in contrasts. The design in itself is simple, but the floor is laid with the finest marble, and was inlaid with precious stones. The altar is elaborately carved and gilded.The retable of the main altar exhibits a huge statue of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder (along with St. Francis Xavier who was a founding member) of the Society of Jesus and below it, a small image of Bom Jesus (Child Jesus), the patron of the church.On the southern side of the transept lies the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier. This chapel has carved and gilded columns and wood-carved floral decorations. This is where the relics of the saint are kept. There is a gorgeous silver statue placed in front of the silver casket where the body of St. Francis Xavier reposes.

The interior of the Basilica measures 83ft in length, 51ft in width and 61ft in height. It is laid out in the orthodox cruciform fashion with a single nave and transept. The ceiling was once vaulted, but has since been replaced with a simple wooden one. The main altar measures a massive 54ft by 30ft. The interiors, while being furnished with the best of materials show a remarkable simplicity typical of Renaissance design.The Basilica contains two chapels, three altars, a sacristy and a choir loft. There is also a belfry at the back. The door through which one enters stands beneath the choir loft. To the right is an altar which is dedicated to St. Anthony and to the left is a well-carved statue of St. Francis Xavier. On the northern wall of the nave is the cenotaph of Dom Jeronimo Mascarenhas. He was the Captain of Cochin and his estate made possible the construction of the Basilica.
 
The columns which support the choir loft bear plaques inscribed in Portuguese and Latin detailing the dates of the Basilica’s construction and consecration. In the transept are two altars which flank the main one. They are highly carved and decorated and are dedicated to St. Michael and Our Lady of Good Hope.The main altar is extremely well carved and gilded. It is backed by an ornate reredos which stretches from floor to ceiling, its baroque carvings in sharp contrast to the classically plain design of the Basilica. The reredos has within it a large statue of St. Ignatius of Loyola protecting the Infant Jesus. His eyes are raised to a carved disc, once more bearing the Jesuit emblem of “IHS”. Above this medallion is a depiction of the Holy Trinity, i.e. The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit.
 
On the northern side of the transept is the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. On the southern side is the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier. Adjoining this chapel is a corridor leading to the sacristy, accessed by a marvellously carved wooden door. It is a vaulted wooden structure ending in an apse. In this reposes an altar which has an iron chest containing the Golden Rose which was bestowed upon the Se Cathedral by Pope Pius XII.The walls are hung with paintings of the saints and the sacristy also contains a beautifully carved chest of drawers. Near the iron chest is a painting of the relics of St. Francis Xavier, done about 100 years ago.

Modern Art Gallery

The Basilica also contains a modern art gallery with paintings depicting various Biblical scenes. The gallery can be accessed using the stairs near the sacristy. It is one of the largest of its kind in Asia. It contains 36 paintings executed between the years 1973 and 1976. The artist was paid only for the materials used as his talent was given gratis, for the greater glory of God.The most notable paintings are entitled “The Last Judgement” and “Genesis”

Tomb of St. Francis Xavier

Fr. Francis Xavier died of a fever in 1552 on the island of Shangchaun, whilst waiting for a boat to travel to China. His last rites were performed and he was laid to rest in a simple coffin in the Portuguese colony of Malacca. When his remains were disinterred some years later, they were found to be “fresh and intact”. Upon hearing of this, the Vatican canonized him a saint. His remains were buried in three different places before they came to their final resting place in Goa.The arrangements of keeping the body of St Francis Xavier in the Chapel were completed on 24^th April 1659. The mausoleum, in Florentine style, was the offer of the last of the Medici’s, Cosimo III, Duke of Tuscany. It is a masterpiece setting and was made by Giovanni Batista Foggini and assembled in Goa by Placido Francesco Ramponi.The silver casket is made up of silver panels which depict 32 scenes from the life of the saint. These panels were created for this purpose by Goan silversmiths under the supervision of Fr. Marco Mastrilli SJ.

The tomb of the great saint, rests beneath a shower of gilt stars. It has three parts: the altars, the Florentine mausoleum and the silver casket. There are four altars, one on each of the four sides of the tomb. They are constructed of reddish jasper with white strips which are ornamented with flourishes and fringes. There are two Cherubim in each corner. They are made of pure alabaster. In the centre of each altar’s frontispiece there is an emblem in bold relief. Above the altars is a quadrangle of spotted jasper. On all four sides are bronze plaques depicting scenes from the life of the saint.
 
In the first scene we see St. Francis preaching to the Malaccan people. Above the panel is a bronze sun disc and two alabaster angels holding a bronze banner inscribed with the words “Nox inimical fugat”. The second scene shows St. Francis baptisting the Malaccans with his right hand and holding a crucifix in his left. The bronze sun is at it’s zenith above this plaque and the banner held by the angels reads “Ut vitam habeant”. The third scene depicts St Francis being attacked by the Moro islanders with stones and arrows. The bronze medallion shows a lion in a storm and the banner reads “Nihil horum vereor”. The fourth plaque shows the death of St. Francis on the island of Shangchaun surrounded by his disciples. The medallion depicts the setting sun and the banner reads “Major in occasu”. Taken together these four Latin phrases can be roughly translated to mean “I drive away the enemy of the night, that they may have new life and fear not the great setting of the sun”

Above this quadrangle is a balustrade of jasper and it is on this balustrade that the silver coffin rests. There are 32 silver plates which form the four sides of the casket. The scenes that they depict are as follows:

·         Francis lies on the ground with his arms and legs tied, but the cords are miraculously broken.

·         Francis kisses the ulcer of a patient lying in a Venetian hospital.

·         He is visited by St. Jerome as he lies ailing in the hospital of Vicenza.

·         A vision about his future apostolate.

·         A vision about his sister’s prophecy regarding his fate.

·         He saves the secretary of the Portuguese Ambassador while crossing the Alps.

·         He lifts a sick man who dies after receiving communion.

·         He baptizes the people in Travancore.

·         He resuscitates a boy who drowned in a well at Cape Comorin

·         He miraculously cures a man full of sores

·         He drives away the Badagas in Travancore

·         He resuscitates three persons: a man who was buried at Coulao; a boy about to be buried at Multao and another child.

·         He takes money from his empty pockets and gives to a Portuguese beggar at Malyapore.

·         He effects a miraculous cure.

·         A crab restores his crucifix which had fallen into the sea.

·         He preaches in the island of Moro.

·         He preaches in the sea of Malacca and announces victory against the enemies.

·         He converts a Portuguese soldier.

·         He helps the dying Vicar of Malacca.

·         Francis kneels down and on his shoulders there rests a child whom he restores to health.

·         He goes walking from Amanguchi to Meaco.

·         He cures a dumb paralytic in Amanguchi.

·         He cures a deaf Japanese person.

·         He prays on the ship during a storm.

·         He baptizes three kings in Cochin.

·         He cures a religious person in the College of St. Paul.

·         Due to lack of water, he sweetens the sea water, during a voyage.

·         The agony of Francis at Sancian.

·         After his death he is seen by a lady according to his promise.

·         The body dressed in sacerdotal vestments is exposed for public veneration.

·         Francis levitates as he distributes communion in the College of St. Paul.

·         The body is placed in a niche at Chaul with lighted candles.

The casket is topped by a cross standing on a pedestal with the figures of angels, one on either side. The angel placed near where his head rests bears a heart with a halo, whilst the one near his feet has the motto “Satis est! Domine, satis est” which means “It is enough, Oh Lord, it is enough”During the time of the exposition, the plates on the side of the silver casket are removed so that devotees may see the “intact” remains of the saint through the glass urn. The glass urn was put in place after the exposition in 1954, when it was decided that the relics should no longer be directly touched. It was made in the Casa Brandizzi in Rome and the relics were placed inside with all ceremony in 1955, before the whole was placed into the silver casket.

Professed House

The construction of the Professed house, which lies next door to the Basilica, began in 1585 and so predates the Basilica by a few years. It is a two-storied building, built of laterite rock and covered with lime plaster. Its construction was completed in 1589 under the aegis of Br. Domingos Fernandes.This became the mission centre for all Jesuit missions to the eastern regions of the known world. The “Casa Professa”, according to Jesuit canon, was intended for the exercise of the Ministries of the Society of Jesus, and should be conspicuous for its exact adherence to the Jesuit way of life.

Legend and Lore

The legend has it that the Jesuits who wanted to construct the Professed House and later the Basilica met with stiff opposition from the Portuguese administration. They had a house on the property, but were being denied permission to build the church. On the eve of the day when they were to be evicted, the wily priests converted the house into a make-shift church, painting the word “Jesus” on the door and putting up a bell. The next morning the bell was rung, much to the surprise of the inhabitants of the surrounding areas, to call them for Mass. After that, the Portuguese were never able to evict the Jesuits from this place.Another interesting tale from the history of this Basilica is that the Duke of Tuscany, who sponsored the building of the mausoleum of St. Francis Xavier, did so out of gratitude. He had been presented with the pillow upon which the saint’s head had been resting by the Jesuit Procurator General of Goa. He felt that such a great saint deserved a grander resting place.
 
Many stories have originated around the relics of St. Francis Xavier. Some believers claim that his body shrinks every year, and when it shrinks to nothing, it will signify the end of the world. Others tell a tale of a woman, who whilst bending to kiss his feet in devotion bit off his big toe. They say that though the toe was bitten off a corpse it yet bled and so she was caught out and the toe returned to the rest of the relics.Simple yet regal, austere yet opulent, unassuming yet grand, this Basilica has risen from its humble beginnings into a world famous monument that commands respect and worship from religious pilgrims and architectural buffs alike. The atmosphere of the Basilica is cool, calm and majestic. The awe-inspiring feeling of being in the presence of something much greater than oneself is a truly humbling experience.

# Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount

Although its secluded location often leads to this little church being overlooked, it is certainly worth a stop on a tour of Velha Goa (Old Goa). With simple exteriors, lavish interiors and wealth of historical significance, this chapel is what one might call a hidden treasure. Its plain whitewashed walls present a delightful picture at sunset, and the view from its vantage point is truly breath taking.Situated as it is atop the Monte near the Church of St. Cajetan, it overlooks the expanse of the Mandovi and the islands of Devar and Chorao.

Claim to Fame

Plays host to the much acclaimed Monte Music festival, which attracts music buffs from all over every February.
 

Timings

The chapel is open to visitors at the following timings
Mon to Sat – 9.00am to 7.00pm
Sun – 9.00am to 12.00pm

Must View

·         View of the Mandovi from near the chapel

·         Chapel at sunset

·         Plaque commemorating the victory of Afonso de Albuquerque

In 1510 this was the site of the battle between the armies of Afonso de Albuquerque and Sultan Adil Shah, who was trying to retake Goa. To commemorate his victory and give thanks, Afonso de Albuquerque erected this chapel. In 1931 the Archaeological commission had a plaque placed here that, when translated, reads, “Here the Mohammedan artillery stood against Alfonso de Albuquerque to retake Goa in May, 1510”.

·         Eight panelled gilded reredos

·         Altars of St. Anthony

History, Construction and Architecture

It is on the top of the “Monte” that the chapel of Our Lady of the Mount” was built soon after the conquest of Goa to mark the site from where Adil Shah positioned his artillery against the Portuguese forces to retake Goa in 1510. So when Afonso de Albuquerque defeated the Sultan’s forces, he made a vow to construct a church at the very strategic point on the mount. The church was constructed in 1519 and has been rebuilt twice since. 
 

Interior and Artwork

The churches chancel had three altars. The main altar has at its centre the image of Our Lady of the Mount holding the child Jesus. Above it is a picture of the coronation of the Virgin Mary, and below that a picture of Our Lady of Assumption. At the base of the retable are the busts of St. Vincent with a ship and St. Lawrence with a gridiron, the symbol of his martyrdom. The collateral altar is dedicated to St. Anthony.

The nave of the chapel is covered by a barrel vaulted ceiling as is the chancel. However, the breadth of the chancel is less than that of the nave. The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady and its retable is divided into eight sections. In the central niche is a statue of Our Lady of the Mount holding the Baby Jesus, above this is a picture of the Coronation of the BVM and below is Our Lady of Assumption. The picture on the side panels and those on the main altar depict various aspects of the life of Our Lady.

At the base of the retable are two busts, one being St. Vincent who is depicted with a ship and the other is St. Lawrence who is depicted with a gridiron, which is the symbol of his martyrdom. The sub-altars are dedicated to St. Anthony of Lisboa and St. Anthony the Hermit. At the angle of these altars are miniatures of the devil and an inscription in Latin, which translated, reads “my sins are always before me”.

Monte Music Festival

Organized by the Fundacao Oriente in collaboration with the Kala Academy, this festival aims to integrate Indian and Western forms of Classical music. Held in February every year, the festival attracts both performers and music buffs from across various countries and fields. A real must see for any music lover

Trivia

This humble chapel has been the backdrop for many a Bollywood film shoot.

Definitions

·         Mannerist – A style of architecture which rose up in response to the Renaissance Movement, and used architectural forms to emphasize solid and spatial relationships, for eg. Pilasters that stretch from the top to bottom of a façade.

·         Loggia – An exterior gallery or corridor, usually on an upper level whose exterior face is exposed to the elements, usually having only columns or arches for support.

# Church of Mae de Deus (Saligao)

Stark, stern and yet with a glamorous charm all its own, the Mae de Deus or Mother of God Church is a breath-taking site. With its Gothic spires and pristine white walls, it reminds one of a fairytale castle. Situated amidst picturesque surroundings of the typical Goan countryside, this Church at Saligao, which is situated in the Bardez taluka, was built in 1873. It is amongst the finest in the Gothic style and is attractively illuminated at night.

Claim to fame :

It is the finest example of Neo-Gothic architecture in Goa. It houses the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus (Mother of God) which was brought from the ruins of the convent of Mae de Deus at Old Goa.
 

Timings

The church is also open to tourists every day from
9.00am to 12.30pm and from 3.00pm to 5.00pm.
 
Mass Timings

Mon to Sat – 7.00am and 8.00am
Sun – 7.00am, 8.30am and 9.30am

Must View

·         Miraculous statue of Mae de Deus     Read more+

·         Neo-Gothic architecture of the Church, unique amongst the Goan churches

·         Illuminated view of the church after sundown     Read more+

·         Statue of Mae de Deus in the church courtyard

·         Gilded and carved ornamentation inside the church

History, Construction and Architecture

The church dedicated to the Mother of God or Our Lady came to be built at Bardez in the 19^th Century. Its foundation stone was laid on 7^th February 1867 and the Saligao Church was inaugurated on November 26, 1873.
The Church building is stunningly distinctive with its jutting spires, each crowned with a cross. It has buttresses supporting its exterior walls and belfry. The courtyard of the Church contains another statue of the Mae de Deus, this one made of black stone.

Interior and Artwork

The interiors of the church are similarly imposing. In addition to the miraculous statue of the Mae de Deus which reposes near the altar, there is an altar stone which was also taken from the convent in Daujim. In addition to the main altar, this church has six sub-altars.
Read more+

Feast

The first Sunday of May is celebrated as the church feast, the feast of Our Lady, the Mother of God. The feast day itself is preceded by a nine day novena, the celebrations and Masses on each day being organized by a different ward of Saligao. Each day, a small group of children are dressed up as angels and they dance before Our Lady and pay homage to her with offerings of flowers. After the novena the celebrations are continued with music and short skits, plays or dances performed by the parishioners.

On the feast day, celebrations are taken a few notches up with a grand procession followed by a firework display. Previously, there was also a dance which was organized by the Saligao Sports Club, called ‘Foxes Night’.

Legend and Lore

Some sources claim that the neighbouring parishes objected to the Saligao church receiving the honour of having the miraculous Mae de Deus statue kept within it. There was even talk of protests and marches, to the dismay of Fr. Camilo Teodorio Rodrigues, the administrator of the church who did not want to give up the statue. The issue was finally settled by the Government Order passed on the 20^th of June, 1865 which was approved by the King of Portugal.

Made possible by the endeavours of the faithful parishioners of Saligao and a singularly beautiful monument for the ages, do stop by this church as you pass it on the Chogm road from Panaji, if only to take a few pictures of its fantastical architecture.

# Church of Our Lady of Rosary

Standing atop the Monte Santo (Holy Hill) and keeping a benevolent watch over Old Goa, is the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. Beautiful in its austereness and simplicity this church is one of the only buildings in Goa that attests to the introduction of Renaissance architecture, brought to Goa by the Portuguese. It is perhaps the most Portuguese of all the Goan churches as it was not influenced by the Goan architectural solutions, which though they have their roots in the Portuguese tradition, have their own unique standing. Additionally, the building remains largely unchanged.

Timings : Open seven days a week from 9 am to 5.30 pm.

Claim to fame : 

The church bears an inscription on the conquest of Goa by Afonso de Albuquerque in 1510. Legend has it that Afonso de Albuquerque surveyed the attack of Adil Shah’s army from this hill and vowed to build a church there to give thanks for his victory.
The church of Our Lady of Rosary is also revered for its connection to St. Francis Xavier, who often taught catechism here when it was first built.

Must See :

·         Tombstone of Garcia De Sa & Cenotaph of Dona Catarina

Set on the floor in front of the altar is the tombstone of the Portuguese governor Garcia De Sa, and set into the northern wall of the chancel is the alabaster Mausoleum, in the Persian style of his wife, Catarina a Piro, who was the first Portuguese woman to arrive in Goa. According to the legend they were married by St Francis Xavier as she lay dying, in fact described as “in Articulo Mortis” which means at the moment of death. Her cenotaph is slightly protruding from the wall and bears on it an inscription in Portuguese, which translated means “Here lies Dona Caterina, wife of Garcia de Sa, who requests the readers of these lines to beg God’s mercy on her soul”

·         Towers andbuttresses

·         Chapels andretables

·         Carvings of the main altar

·         Granite baptismal font

History, Construction and Architecture

Although de Albuquerque vowed to build a church in this spot when he saw his armies marching to victory, this church was not built in his lifetime. He originally constructed a hermitage on this site, which was later converted into the church which stands here today. The construction began in 1544 and took six years to complete.

The architecture of this church presents features of the classic Gothic style along with Portuguese-Manueline style while the Renaissance influence is reflected in the interior vaults and decoration of the retables. In 1931, the Archaeological Committee of Goa placed a marble slab on the walls of the church with the inscription: “From this height, Afonso de Albuquerque watched the re-conquest of Goa on 25/11/1510.”

The church is built of laterite and plastered with lime mortar. The design of this church is exceedingly simple and it has been beautifully restored. The only decorations on its exterior are simple rope twist devices which celebrate the seafaring ways of the Portuguese colonists. These ropes wrapped cornice-style around the towers are very typical of the Manueline style.

The three-storied tower façade of this church is outstanding. There are buttresses built on the front corners of the church, thus giving it the look of a fortress, an air which is only enhanced by its high windows. There are two towers on the corners of the nave. The south tower contains a winding staircase that gives access to the “high choir” on the upper floor of this tower. The North tower contains within it a baptismal chapel on the lower level. The upper level is distinguished by slender columns and has round arched windows in which bells are hung.
The portico of this church is two-storied. The Gothic influences are clearly visible in the rib of the portico the roof is tiled and supported by wooden rafters.

Interior and Artwork

Like its exterior, the interior of this church is also plain. The reredos (screen or decoration behind the altar) is ungilded but beautifully carved.

Set on the floor in front of the altar is the tombstone of the Portuguese governor Garcia De Sa, and set into the northern wall of the chancel is the alabaster Mausoleum, in the Persian style of his wife, Catarina a Piro, who was the first Portuguese woman to arrive in Goa. According to the legend they were married by St Francis Xavier as she lay dying, in fact described as “in Articulo Mortis” which means at the moment of death. Her cenotaph is slightly protruding from the wall and bears on it an inscription in Portuguese, which translated means “Here lies Dona Caterina, wife of Garcia de Sa, who requests the readers of these lines to beg God’s mercy on her soul”

The church is constructed in the orthodox, cruciform fashion with a square apse (the apse is a semicircular recess covered with a hemispherical vault or semi-dome. In Romanesque, Byzantine and Gothic Christian abbey, cathedral and church architecture, the term is applied to a semi-circular or polygonal termination of the main building at the liturgical east end). It as a single nave ,with two chapels opening onto the nave (main body of the church), one in front of, and the other next to the apse. The arches of the chapels open onto the nave at varying heights. The nave once had a ceiling; however this structure collapsed in 1897, damaging the vaults of the chapels. The nave now has an open-tiled roof.The chapels and the chancel (or sanctuary) have star-form rib vaults. The chapels have retables representing the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Christ.
The narthex and the north wall of the church have very similar archways, which are distinctively Renaissance in nature. The retables of the chancel altars and the nave are also very classical in nature.
The church contains three altars. The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary and shows Hindu influences in its carvings of mangoes, cashews and flowers. The baptismal font in this church has been carved out of a single granite slab.
One of the bells, made by Peter Dias Bocarro in 1618, bears an inscription, which translated reads, “Mary was assumed into heaven. The angels rejoice and bless the Lord in praise. Hail Mary, full of grace! The Lord is with thee. Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb Jesus. Holy Mary.”

# Church of St. Ana

Dedicated to St.Ana, it is a remarkable piece of ancient Christian architecture, situated in Talaulim. Built in 1695 on the bank of the Siridao river, its unique feature are the hollow walls through which people could walk in secrecy for confession.

# Church of St. Francis of Assisi

Journeying west from the Se Cathedral, one comes upon the Old Palace of the Archbishop, which serves as a conduit from the cathedral to the Church of St. Francis of Assisi.Thanks in part to its renovation in 1665, this graceful building displays a charming mix of architectural styles and intricately carved artwork. The adjoining convent has long since been converted into the Archaeological Museum and is worth a visit in its own right. No tour of Old Goa could be complete without a visit to this twofold attraction.

Claim to Fame

The blending of Portuguese-Manueline style portal from the older structure into the later Tuscan style building, to produce a unique specimen of architecture. The adjoining convent houses the Museum of Archaeological History.

Timings

The Museum is open 7 days a week and its timings are as follows:
9.00am – 12.30 and 3.00pm to 6.30
The Church is open 6 days a week and the Timings are as follows
Mon to Sat – 7.30am to 6.30pm

Must View List

·         Statue of Our lady of Miracles in the niche in the façade, brought over from Sri Lanka

·         Octagonal towers

·         Manueline architecture of the portal

Built in 1665, the new church retained the portal of the old structure which was in the Portuguese–Manueline style. It is a unique architectural specimen, of this style in the country.

·         Paintings on the interior walls depicting scenes from the Bible

·         Statues of St. Francis of Assisi and Jesus on the altar

·         Baroque and Corinthian carvings on the altar itself

·         Wood Paintings depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi

·         Frescoes with floral decorations

History, Construction and Architecture

The original shrine, constructed by the Fransican monks in 1521 and subsequently enlarged, was showing signs of decay, so a new church was constructed and dedicated to the Holy Spirit. Built in 1665, it retained the portal of the old structure which was in the Portuguese–Manueline style. It is a unique architectural specimen, of this style in the country.The façade of the church is built in the Tuscan style of architecture with only the portal being Manueline since it is a relic from the older structure. The façade is also distinctive in that it is flanked by octagonal towers.

In 1517, eight Franciscan monks landed in Goa. They immediately set to work and built themselves a small chapel. This chapel was completed in 1521 and dedicated to the Holy Ghost. This building was later expanded upon and later consecrated as a church in 1602. However, it was not in good repair and it was later torn down and reconstructed in 1665.The church is built of laterite blocks, covered with lime plaster. The original Manueline entrance way is flanked by two octagonal towers. The façade of the church is three tiered and has a small niche which houses the statue of Our Lady of Miracles which was brought from Jaffna in Sri Lanka.

Interior and Art

In contrast to the simple outer façade the interiors of the church are unabashedly and lavishly decorated in the Baroque style using Corinthian influences. The highlight is the main altar, which has fine examples of this kind of work.The altar is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi and has above it a huge statue of the saint, and another of Jesus. These statues display excellent features and attention to detail. Flanking the altar are superb paintings on wood depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi and the history of the Seraphic Order.Although this church is not as large as the illustrious Se Cathedral, it is beautiful nonetheless. It is a single-nave church with three small chapels on either side of the nave. There are two altars besides the main one, which is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. Behind the altar are rooms which form the sacristy and there is a belfry to the north of the altar. The chapels and the gallery which runs around the top of the church are separated by internal buttresses.
 
Designed in a Baroque style the interior of the church is richly decorated. As you enter, on the left is an intricately carved wooden pulpit, decorated with floral patterns. The interior of the church itself is lavishly decorated with paintings depicting scenes from the Bible. The internal buttress walls have been carved with floral frescoes in the Indo-Portuguese Baroque style.There are inscribed tombstones set into the stone floor of the church, many of which are worthy of note as they have been intricately carved. The main altar is carved and gilded, and beneath the statues of St. Francis of Assisi and Jesus is inscribed the vows of the saint “poverty, humility and obedience”. Beneath the main vault, is a richly carved niche containing the tabernacle, used for the repose of the Blessed Sacrament. The tabernacle is supported by sculptures of the Four Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Convent and Museum of Archaeological History

The Convent was built by the Franciscan friars around 1527 and later expanded. Today it houses the museum, established by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1964. Valuable sculptures and icons of pre-Portuguese era and portraits of Viceroys and Governor- Generals are displayed here.This westward facing church has watched patiently over the faithful and seen the sun set on the Portuguese reign in India. The convent having been at first the simple living quarters of the Franciscan monks, then a convent and now a museum, is a timeless place, well worth a visit.

# Nunnery of Santa Monica in Goa

Standing atop the Monte Santo, resolutely facing north is the Nunnery of Santa Monica. Like a grand old matriarch, the building stands not just with grace and dignity but with formidable beauty and an air of insurmountable defenses; tenderly sheltering those within whilst repelling the whims and fancies of the fickle, shallow world.This nunnery in Goa is named for St. Monica who was the mother of St. Augustine, and it could once accommodate more than 250 inmates. It was a sanctuary not only for nuns, but also for widows willing to devote themselves to the service of God, and for the temporary protection of well-born ladies whose husbands had travelled to far off lands on military conquests or expeditions.

Claim to fame :

The convent enjoyed the patronage of Royalty and was the first nunnery in the east. The convent houses the Miraculous or Weeping Cross in one of the chapels.
 

Timings

The Nunnery, which is now the Museum of Christian Art is open from 9.30 am to 5pm everyday

History, Construction and Architecture

This convent, the Nunnery of Santa Monica was sanctioned in 1598 and the Archbishop Aleixo de Menezes laid the foundation stone in 1606. Construction was completed in 1627. Built like a fortress, this convent is significant for its massive walls and buttresses. The convent has a vast courtyard with a cloister. Its three stories have numerous cells and halls. Massive standing, rather than flying, buttresses characterize the exterior of the convent.
 
On Christmas Eve 1636, a massive fire partially destroyed the building but it was restored by Fr. Diogo de Santa Anna, who was the then administrator and “spiritual father” of the convent.The architecture of the Church and convent reflect a combination of the Tuscan, Corinthian and composite styles. The façade of the Church has two main doorways with basalt frames. The three arched buttresses are solidly constructed and were a later addition to the structure. The road leading to the tip of Monte, runs through these buttresses.The façade of the church prominently features a statue of Santa Monica as well as the symbol of the Holy Ghost. The doors also feature granite carvings of a Caravel, which is a small, highly manoeuvrable Portuguese sailing ship, and a dragon.
 
The façade of the convent bears a carving of the symbols of the Eucharist, the Paschal Lamb and Holy Ghost along with an inscription. The convent itself is quadrangular. It has three stories and is built around a courtyard, called the Vale de Lirios, which means lily of the valley. The courtyard also contained a cloister. In the centre of this courtyard was a well, known as the Font de Salvador.The walls of the nunnery are massive and solidly constructed. They were said to be so strong that the relative strength of other buildings was measured against them, “my house is well-built, and it is as strong as the walls of Santa Monica”.

Interior and Artwork

The convent itself is massive and consists of three floors. There were various cells and rooms to accommodate the residents of the convent. The Church of the Weeping Cross is attached to the south of the convent. It has four altars; the main one is dedicated to St. Monica, the others to St. Augustine the Bom Jesus and the Miraculous Cross. The vaults over some of the spaces were enriched with scenes from the bible, similar to that of the Sistine chapel in Rome.On the 8^th of February 1636, the statue of Christ on the Cross of Inside is said to have opened its eyes whilst blood flowed from the wounds as if it were living. The same miracle took place once more, four days later in the presence of the Viceroy, Archbishop and other high ranking church officials. The Archdiocese of Goa celebrates its festival on the 27^th of November.

The convent contained within it eight dormitories. They were Madre de Deus which had eight cells; Santa Anna which had sixteen Divino Salvador which had eleven; Santo Agostinho which had sixteen, Sepulcro, Belem, Senora de Candeia and De Cima. These dormitories were only for the inmates of the convent and there were separate, special dormitories for the servants.The ground floor of the convent had a gate known as the Porta de Fora, or the outer door. Through this, visitors were allowed to talk with the nuns. This opened onto the apartments call Aposentos de Portiero and Locutorio de Fora. Beyond this was the Portaria de clausara, the door of the cloister and the Casa de Rodo, and a nun remained in charge of the keys. The door between these two was the Porta de probicao and no one was allowed to enter without the express written permission of the Bishop. The penalty for violating this rule was instant excommunication.
 
The interior of the Church of the Weeping Cross blends the Doric and composite styles of architecture. The image of the Christ which was said to have wept blood was previously kept in the choir loft, but now occupies a place of honour in a tribune in the nave of the church.The main altar of the church has magnificent retable divided in three. In the first section stands a statue of St. Augustine, flanked by St. Thomas of Vila Nova and St. Ambrosius, the second section has a statue of St. Monica, to whom the altar is consecrated, and she has on either side of her St. Rita and St. Melania and the third section has a representation of Calvary with the saints Peter and Paul on either side.The pulpit too is artistically carved with sculptures of Our Lady of Piety, St. Augustine and two Augustinian bishops. On either side of the altar are carved angels, interestingly enough, with cashew shaped earrings.

Life of the Nuns

The nuns in this convent were cloistered and lived a hard and frugal existence. They were allowed no contact with the outside world and even family visits were rarely permitted, and then only under strict supervision.They were divided into two groups within the convent. The nuns of the black veil were only those ladies of Portuguese descent whilst the nuns of the white veil were of native Goan descent. Although the government recommended that this distinction be abolished they were largely ignored.

The nuns had a solitary and frugal existence within the walls of the cloister. After a novice entered the convent her hair was shorn before she took up the veil. Family members were only allowed two visits a month, at that no male family members apart from fathers, brothers and paternal uncles, and all the visits had to be supervised. They were not allowed any visitors on communion days, which were twice a week, feast days and other days of obligation or during the periods of Advent and Lent.Along with meditation and prayer the nuns also occupied themselves with needlework, gardening and cooking. They made vestments for the priests as well as altar cloths and banners. It is said that one such banner was made for the Murmagao fort to give blessings, strength and courage during the Dutch invasion. The art of making artificial flowers is also attributed to them.
 
The nuns were accomplished cooks and made preserves of jams and jellies as well as syrups and sweets. Their gardens too were beautiful and well-tended, growing various types of fruits and flowers. The only male visitors, besides the close family members were the doctor, in case of illness and the Archbishop who visited the convent annually. The nuns even heard mass only from the choir loft, from where they could observe the mass without being seen.The nuns also had penitence rooms where they practiced various disciplinary techniques including self-flagellation with ropes or leather straps.Their numbers dwindled through the years until the convent was closed as a nunnery after the last sister residing there died, and was reinstated as a church in 1968.

Legend and Lore

One story, which has in fact been attested to by many and recorded in the Secretariat of the government of Goa, states that Sr. Maria de Jesus died on the convent premises, at the age of 78 with stigmata present on her hands and feet. This was apparently verified by the physicians of that time.

Today this convent has been converted into the Museum of Christian Art, whilst the old Monastery of Santa Monica houses the Mater Dei Institute, for the formation of the faith for women from all religious congregations in India.

On your way to the museum, it is well worth it to stop by the chapel of the Weeping cross, and to admire the massive and formidable building which has stood the test of time, relentlessly guarding its inmates from the vices and foibles of life in the outer world.

# Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

Not all of Goa’s myriad ancient churches are concentrated in Velha Goa. A notable exception is the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church which is located in Panaji, the capital city of Goa. It is possessed of a singularly distinctive appearance thanks to the double flights of steps that zigzag across the hillside on which it is built.True to its name, the façade of this church is painted an immaculate, sparkling white. To the untrained eye, this might even belie the actual age and antiquity of this church.

Claim to Fame

This church houses the ancient bell that was removed from the Augustinian ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Grace. This bell is considered to be the second largest of its kind in Goa, surpassed only by the Golden Bell which resides in the Se Cathedral.
 

Timings

Being a functioning Parish, you can hear Mass at this church at the following times
Sunday – 7.00am, 8.15am, 9.30am, 10.30am and 5.30pm
The church is also open to the public every day from 9.00am – 12.30pm and 3.30pm – 7.30pm

Must View

·         The Augustinian bell housed in the main belfry.

This bell was rescued from the ruins of the Augustinian church of Our Lady of Grace, on the Monte Santo and initially installed in the chapel at the Fort Aguada. However the decision was later taken to install it in this, a more prominent church, instead. The bell was so heavy (2250kgs) that they needed to reinforce the structure before it could bear the added load. It is now housed in a tall belfry atop the church and there is a sign attached to the rope which asks that the bell not be rung.

·         Distinctive zigzagging stairway

The stairway was modelled after that of the Bom Jesus de Braga, Portugal with one middle and four side landings arranged in perfect symmetry. The middle landing has a statue of Our Lady on a 5m high plinth that was installed in 1954.

·         Two towers on either side of the façade

·         View of Panaji from the church steps

·         View of the church after sunset when the façade is lit by a multitude of lights

·         Statue of St. Francis Xavier, in the centre of the reredos

·         Carved altars and pulpits

·         Marble statues of St. Peter and St. Paul which flank the altar

·         Chapel of St. Francis Xavier

History, Construction and Architecture

The original construction on this site is believed to have been a chapel, built in 1541, so that sailors could give thanks to God for delivering them safely to Goa and avoiding the perils of the sea, before continuing their journey to Velha Goa.This chapel was later rebuilt, in 1619, into the church that stands there today. The architecture of the present church is a beautiful blend of the Portuguese-Baroque and Goan styles. The imposing façade is distinctive with its two towers and even taller belfry. It can be seen from a great distance, and is sometimes known as the ‘crown’ of Panaji.To reach the church, you have to climb 78 steps. This zigzagging double staircase was a later addition, added in 1871 after the land in front of the church was reclaimed, at the same time the pediment and belfry was strengthened in preparation for the installation of the heavy Augustinian bell.

Interior and Art

The interior of this church is comparatively simple, especially when one compares it to the profusely decorated reredoses and carvings that one sees in the churches in Old Goa. However, the decoration has been skilfully and gracefully executed both on the main altar and on the two sub-altars which flank it.The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, known as Nossa Senhora da Immaculada Conceicao in Portuguese. The altar on the right is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary while the one on the left is dedicated to the Crucifixion of Christ.

The church is laid out in the orthodox cruciform fashion with a nave and a transept. The main altar has a bas-relief carving of the Last Supper of Jesus with his Apostles. The pulpit has a depiction of the descending of the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove. The main altar is backed by a fantastically carved and gilded reredos, where the statue of St. Francis Xavier enjoys pride of place.The two sub-altars are also noteworthy for the carving and gilt work and they are flanked by statues of St. Peter and St. Paul. In the southern part of the transept is the chapel of St. Francis Xavier, which is very popular amongst the visitors to this church.

Festival

On the 8th of December this church celebrates the feast of the Immaculate Conception with great pomp and fervour. The celebrations are preceded by a nine day novena to Our Lady. The church is decorated with a profusion of lights and the vaulted ceiling is strung with blue and white flowers which reflect the colour scheme of the church (and of Our Lady).After the feast mass the people go in procession with a brass band and the candle sellers come out in force, to sell their wares to the faithful desirous of making offerings to Our Lady to ask for her intercession. After the procession there is often a firework display while the band continues to play festive mandos and fados. People enjoy themselves, walking amongst the stalls selling miniature statuettes, souvenirs, garments, food and drink, to name just a few.

Trivia

If you find the façade of this church familiar, that may be because it has been the backdrop for many a Bollywood movie shoot.Poised as it is on the hilltop, this church has been variously described as the ‘Crown of Panaji’, a ‘great big wedding cake’ like structure and ‘a bride waiting at the altar. One cannot seem to go anywhere in Panaji without passing, or at least seeing this church. However, for the discerning tourist, it is well worth a closer look.

# Se Cathedral, Goa

Standing with its gracious façade facing east to welcome each new day, and to the west of the great square Terreiro de Sabaio, Se Cathedral is the most imposing of all the churches at Old Goa, its vaulted interior overwhelming visitors with its sheer grandeur. Se Cathedral Goa, is dedicated to St. Catherine

Timings
Open everyday from 7.30 am to 6 pm.
Mass Timings
Weekdays – 7.30 am and 6.00 pm
Sunday – 7.15 am, 10.00 am and 4.00 pm

Claim to fame :

The Se Cathedral wast built to commemorate the victory of Afonso Albuquerque, which was won on the feast of St. Catherine of Alexandria, this edifice is the largest church in Asia. It is the Cathedral of the Archbishop of Goa.

With its superb Iberian façade, soaring ceilings, fabulous mosaic work, intricate wood and gilded carvings, the Se Cathedral, also sometimes called St. Catherine’s cathedral is an absolute must-see for any visitor in Goa.

Must See :

·         The existing bell tower containing the Golden Bell

·         The baptismal font used by St. Francis Xavier

·         The main altar with its gilded reredos depicting scenes from the life of St. Catherine of Alexandria as well as her martyrdom.

·         The Chapel of the Cross of Miracles, where a vision of the Christ was seen on the plain and unadorned cross in 1919.

·         The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament with its skillfully carved and gilded wall and ceiling.

·         The wooden filigree screens separating the chapels from the nave.

·         The six additional altars in the transept with the paintings depicting the lives of the saints

·         The 18^th century organ housed in one of the galleries.

·         The statuary and paintings along the walls and in the niches of the pillars, including statues of St. Francis Xavier, St Ignatius of Loyola, St. Peter, St Paul and St. Christopher.

History, Construction and Architecture

The construction of Se Cathedral in Goa started in 1562 and ended in 1652. The hundred years spent on this construction, have indeed been well worth it, as the proud cathedral still stands tall and almost unblemished today. Built on a raised laterite plinth and covered in lime plaster, this cathedral measures 250 feet (76 m) in length, 181 feet (55 m) in breadth whilst its frontispiece stands 115 feet (35 m) high

Interior and Artwork

The interior is laid out in a traditional cruciform shape, even though the exterior appears rectangular. The interior architecture is Corinthian. The main altar is dedicated to St Catherine of Alexandria. Besides the main altar there are eight chapels along the sides of the nave and six altars at the transept.Pope Pius the XII conferred upon this shrine the Golden Rose, which is a gold ornament, a token of reverence and affection. The ornament itself has since been placed on the tomb of St. Francis Xavier.Visitors to this shrine should make it a point to see the magnificent reredos above the main altar whose six gilded panels depict the life of Saint Catherine, the fifteen communion tables, dedicated to Our Lady of Three Needs, Our Lady of Hope and Our Lady of Anguish and the baptismal font, built in 1532 which was used by St. Francis Xavier to baptize converts. Also worth seeing, is the chapel of the Cross of Miracles, where a vision of the Christ has been said to have appeared in 1919.

St. Catherine of Alexandria

Usually numbered among early women martyrs, Catherine of Alexandria holds a special place among the prophetic saints in the church because of her role as philosophical defender of the faith. She is also the patroness of Christian philosophers besides being the patroness of the City of Old Goa, aka Velha Goa or Goa Velha.In Church art, St. Catherine of Alexandria, is depicted wearing a crown, (denoting her royal Birth), holding a book, (denoting knowledge), and steering a spiked wheel (denoting her martyrdom). The reason for this is tradition is to denote the notable epochs in her life.

Legend and Lore

Contrary to the idea that this chapel was built using funds from the Royal Treasury, some sources instead claim that it was built using money from the sale of properties that were impounded by the government.The Cross of Miracles (Khuris Milagre) is also credited with phenomenal power and significance some legends state that it is constantly, if slowly, growing, whilst others claim to have seen water spring from the rock upon which the cross is built.This Cathedral in Goa is not only worth a visit in its own right, but it is also convenient to several other tourist spots. The convent which adjoined the cathedral has been converted into an Archaeological Museum which is open to the public and the world famous Bom Jesus Basilica, lies just on the other side of the square. Small wonder then, that no visit to Goa could be considered complete without gazing at the awe-inspiring art and architecture of this most revered cathedral.

Se Cathedral Goa, is dedicated to St. Catherine

# St. Cajetan’s Church

Undisputedly one of the most beautiful churches in Goa, this gracious old building stands in Old Goa, northeast of the Se Cathedral. Although the Church was originally dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence, it is more commonly known as the Church of St. Cajetan, who was a contemporary of St. Francis Xavier and the founder of the Order of monks called the Theatines.This is probably due to their dedication and the lengths they went to, to get the church built in the first place.

Claim to Fame

It was built to have architectural similarities with St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. It also has superb examples of the Corinthian style.

Timings

The church is open seven days a week from 9.00 am to 7.00pm.

Must View List

·         Statues of St. Peter, St. Paul, St. John and St. Matthew niched in the façade

·         Hemispherical dome, reminiscent of St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome

·         Twin quadrangular belfry towers

·         Four pillars with arches supporting the Cupola

·         Verse from the gospel of Matthew inscribed around the cupola

The cupola has, inscribed around it, the following verse in Latin, “Quaerite primum regnum Dei et haec omnia adjicientur vobis” which in English translates to “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33)

·         Main altar with the beautifully carved altarpiece depicting Our Lady of Divine Providence

·         Paintings of the life of St. Cajetan adorning the walls and pillars

History, Construction and Architecture

This church was built by Italian Monks of the Order of Theatines in 1665. It’s crowned with a huge hemispherical dome, on the pattern of the Roman Basilica of St. Peter. However, instead of two cupolas it exhibits two quadrangular towers.The façade exhibits superb examples of Corinthian architecture. Four statues of St. Paul, St. Peter, St. John the evangelist and St. Matthew wrought in basalt are niched within it. It also has the words, “Domus mea, domus oration/s” which means, “My House is a House of Prayer” etched boldly across the portal.Within the compound of the church is an even more ancient arch with pillars covered in Hindu carvings. These are believed to the only remaining part of the Palace of Adil Shah, Sultan of Bijapur.
 

The construction of the Church and convent began in 1655 and was completed in 1661. The church is built of laterite blocks covered with lime plaster. Although small compared to some of the other Goan churches, it is heralded as being the epitome of art and craftsmanship. The sparkling white façade speaks eloquently as to the European origins of the churches architecture. In keeping with Theatine architectural practices, this church has no towers, but instead boasts two turrets which act as the belfries (bell towers).The frontispiece of the church has Corinthian columns, two stories high supporting a triangular pediment. The cupola is clearly visible, crowned with a lantern. There are also four ornamental niches in the façade containing the statues of the apostles.

Interior and Art

The interior of this church, whilst also Corinthian, shows Baroque, Rococo and Goan influences in the intricately carved and gilded work. There are eight columns that divide the church into a nave with six vaulted lateral chapels.The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence, the patroness of the church. Underneath the altar there is a crypt with a vault resting on four pillars. There are also six more altars, three on each side of the main one.Beneath the dome , there is a 22 meters deep well devised by Fr. Francisco Manco , the architect, in order to provide an outlet for the waters oozing out of the subsoil, which had caused the walls to collapse twice.
 

As you enter the church, there are two fonts containing holy water, which once stood in the cathedral. The story goes that Cosimo III, Duke of Tuscany, donated Carrara marble fonts for holy water to this church, but these were later removed to the cathedral.The church is laid out in the shape of a Greek cross, although it appears oblong from the exterior. The eight columns divide the nave from the chapels on either side, and the four central pillars support the cupola with beautifully carved arches. Inscribed around the cupola is a verse in Latin, which reads “Quaerite primum regnum Dei et haec omnia adjicientur vobis” which in English translates to “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). The windows set around the dome, ensure that the church is always well lit.
 
Below the cupola can be seen a covered well, which was either part of an earlier structure, most likely believed to be a mansion, or strategically placed there by the architect to deal with water seepage from the sub-soil. There is also a crypt which is the final resting place of many of the Theatine friars. Set into a multitude of niches around the vault are carved statues of various saints.The main altar is profusely carved and backed by a gilded reredos. This reredos is unique in that unlike most of the others seen in Goa, it tapers towards the ceiling and is crowned by a sun. The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence. There is a statue of the Nossa Senhora de Divina Providencia seated within the reredos holding a host and chalice. At her feet are two angels and the legend “Comedite panem meum, et bibite vinum quod miscui vobis” the English translation of which is “Eat my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled for you” (Proverbs 9:5)
 
In addition to the main altar there are six more altars, three on either side. These altars have been profusely carved and gilded in the baroque style with twisted shafts and figures of angels. The three on the left are dedicated to St. Clare, the Holy Family and Our Lady of Piety; whilst those on the right are dedicated to St. Agnes, St John and St. Cajetan. These altars also have painting done on canvas, many of which depict the life of St. Cajetan. The paintings are of the Italian School that was popular at the time.Another unusual feature of this church is that it has not one, but two sacristies which are located on either side of the main altar. It is also said that the embalmed bodies of the Portuguese Governors were kept here till they could be sent back to Portugal. The church was used for this purpose until 1842.

Convent of St. Cajetan

Built on a much smaller scale than the church the convent is nevertheless an imposing structure. Its closure in 1835 forced sixteen Theatines to leave. It was then used as a residence for the Governors of Goa when they came to Old Goa for religious functions. Later still the gallery of portraits of the Viceroys and Governors was transferred here along with the ‘Museu da India Portuguesa’.Today however, the convent has once again been repurposed and in some part returned to its roots. It now houses the Pope Pius X institute for the Pastoral training of priests.

Legend and Lore

The story goes that three Italian Theatine monks were sent to India by Pope Urban VIII to spread Christianity in Golconda. Not being allowed to preach there, they came to Goa in 1640 and soon thereafter started the construction of a Hospital on the Monte Santo between the Nunnery of Santa Monica and the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. However, as they were foreigners, the Viceroy of Goa stopped the construction and evicted them from Goa in 1645.Undeterred, the monks made their way to Portugal and petitioned the king himself representing the need for the hospital and asking that they be allowed to build it. King Dom Joao IV was impressed by their dedication and gave them his permission. They returned to Goa and built their hospital in 1650. Later, in 1655, they started building the Church and the convent which was attached to it.
 
The Theatines are also credited as being the ones who advocated that Holy Communion should be distributed to all Goan Catholics irrespective of their social class or caste. Prior to this Communion was reserved only for the higher classes of Indian Catholics. The Theatines demanded that the Archbishop convene a public conference and put forward many arguments from Scripture to support their convictions.An unrivalled depiction of beauty and grace, this church is yet another must see on a visit to Old Goa. The atmosphere is one of cool and collected reflection as it watches over its people, witnessing days stretch into years in the vast ocean of time.

# Rachol Seminary

Situated just off the banks of the Zuari river, 5 kilometers from Margao in South Goa and built in 1574—1610, this majestic seminary is a centre of learning in philosophy and theology.

# Reis Magos Church in Verem

“Reis Magos” is Portuguese for the Three Magi, otherwise known as the Three Wise Men. Like these esteemed gentlemen, in order to reach this church one must stray off the beaten path. The little hamlet of Reis Magos, is the home of not one, but two famous landmarks, the Reis Magos Church and the Reis Magos fort. Located on the banks of the river Mandovi, the sparkling white façade of this church is easily visible from the opposite banks. To reach it, however, one must turn off the road leading to the tourist hotspots of Calangute and Baga. A little turn just past the Verem Bazaar past the Hindu tree shrine will lead you to this church.Notwithstanding its slightly out of the way location, this church was once the residence of all Catholic Dignitaries and also a Mission Centre of the Franciscan order.

Timings

Open everyday – 6.00am to 11.00pm
 
Mass Timings

Weekdays – 7.30 am
Sundays – 7.30 am and 5.00pm

Claim to fame : 

It was the first church to be built in the Bardez Taluka, and posseses a multi-coloured wood relief of the Magi. It is also one of only three places in Goa which celebrates the Epiphany (Feast of the Three Kings) with processions and re-enactments.

Must View

·         Bas relief lions at the base of the steps showing Hindu influences in Portuguese architecture.

·         Shrine to Our Lady of Health, built in 1510 to commemorate the Portuguese victory that won them Bardez.

·         Carving of the Three Magi bearing their gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh for the Holy Babe.

·         Tomb of Dom Luis de Ataide, the famous Portuguese Viceroy

Dom Luis de Ataide, was a famous Portuguese warrior, who according to legend, accomplished the great feat in 1570, of holding at bay an army of 100,000 men and 2000 elephants for ten months, with a battalion of just 7000 men.

History, Construction and Architecture

The Reis Magos church was constructed in 1555 by the Franciscan Friars and was one of the earliest churches built in Goa. It also has the distinction of being the first to be built in the Bardez Taluka.Although the church was built in 1555, the entire interior was redone in 1771, and the towers were added around the year 1776. The church itself sits atop a graceful flight of steps at the base of which can be seen two carved lions reminiscent of Vijaynagar temple architecture.The length of the church runs along the Mandovi river. The breadth of the church has along it five doorways and Corinthian columns dividing the compartments of the façade. The church also displays a high, carved gable, decorated with scroll work and given added majesty by the presence of the Royal Insignia.Near the base of the steps is a small shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Health. This was erected on the spot to commemorate the victory of Afonso de Albuquerque over the outpost in 1510.

Interior and Artwork

The church is dedicated to St Jerome. The church interiors are quite impressive with the highlight being the multi-colored wood relief showing The Three Wise Men bearing gifts to the baby Jesus.The church contains a high main altar backed by an impressively carved reredos. Carved out of various coloured woods, the reredos depicts the Three Magi offering their gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh to the Infant Jesus and His kneeling Mother.The church contains the tombs of two Portuguese Viceroys, one of whom was Dom Luis de Ataide. An impressively carved slab in the corridor of the church marks his tomb. This church also contains the tomb of another Portuguese Viceroy. The inscriptions on these in both Portuguese and Latin are still clearly visible.

Festival

Every year on the 6^th of January, Reis Magos comes alive with the colorful “Festa dos Reis Magos” when the story of the Three Kings is re-enacted by the locals, with three youths playing the parts of the Magi. The locals celebrate the journey of the Three Kings who went to worship the Holy Infant Jesus with a procession that starts from the church and goes around the village.A beautiful and dignified church, the Reis Magos is definitely worth a visit, especially if you happen to be in Goa on the festival days, in which case you might like to join in the procession to relive the pilgrimage of the Three Magi, following the star to Bethlehem.

# Ruins of the Church of St. Augustine

Close to the Nunnery of Santa Monica, stands a lofty tower still proudly, defying the vagaries of the weather and the ravages time. This is the only surviving tower of the four that were once a part of the Church of St. Augustine. What was once perhaps the biggest Church in Goa is now a crumbling ruin, largely deserted, with its glory days behind it. However, this ruin still has some secrets left to divulge to those who are willing to dig deep enough to find them.
 
Claim to fame :

In 1986, UNESCO declared the ruins to be a World Heritage Site. It is also the site of the archaeological discovery of the remains of Queen Ketevan.
 
History, Construction and Architecture

This complex was built by the Augustinian order. It comprised the church of Our Lady of Grace, the Convent of Saint Augustine, The College of Populo, and The Seminary of St Guilherme.The church is dedicated to Our Lady of Grace. Its construction was started in 1597 and was completed around 1602. Originally comprising of four towers and a massive vault, the dimensions of this superb edifice placed it on par with the great imperial cathedrals of the Renaissance era.

The tower which still stands is built of laterite. This great structure stands four stories high. It was intended as a belfry. The ancient bell that once resided there has since been moved, first to the Fort Aguada and more recently to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church at Panaji, where it remains till today.The original Church of Our Lady of Grace once contained eight chapels, four altars and had a convent attached to it. Upon entering the church, there was a High altar backed by a richly carved retable, the whole structure being supported by soaring pillars, the vestiges of which remain visible today.The immense vault of the church collapsed in part due to its weight, and the nave of the church is now open to the sky. There was also an immense choir loft, capable of holding a large chorus of monks.The convent was built on three levels and once contained two cloisters, numerous corridors, pillars and galleries. The remains of a refectory i.e. dining hall, Guest house and Infirmary, all of which were very spacious, have also been found. It also had vast dormitories and numerous cells where the monks spent their day to day lives.

Abandonment and Ruination

In 1835, the Augustinians were expelled from Goa and as a result, the church was abandoned. In 1846, the main vault of the church collapsed and the convent rapidly decayed. Of all the majestic buildings, that once stood here, all that is left to see today is the belfry of the tower that soared 150 ft. high.

Legend and Lore

An old tale recounts how the vault of the church was problematic to construct and in fact fell down twice whilst being erected. The third time that it was put up, the architect, to show his confidence in his design stationed his only son within the church and ordered that a cannon be fired at the structure. Fortunately, his confidence was not misplaced, and the structure held.

Archaeological Heritage

Even though the original church lies in ruins, it becomes ever more apparent that it yet has unplumbed depths. Careful study beginning in 1990 has recently resulted in the discovery of the remains of the lost martyr, Queen Ketevan of Georgia.Queen Ketevan was the dowager queen of Kakheti, a kingdom of Georgia. After the death of her husband, the king, her kingdom was invaded by Shah Abbas I.Having easily conquered the kingdom, he took the Queen prisoner and she languished in Iran for almost a decade. In 1624, she was served an ultimatum by Shah Abbas I, she could convert to Islam and join his harem, or be tortured and executed. The Queen chose to die for her faith.

Accordingly, she was tortured by being stripped to the waist and having her flesh torn off with the use of red hot pincers before being strangled to death with a bow string. This took place on the 22^nd of September 1624.She was then buried, without ceremony. However she had, in her last days, befriended two Augustinian monks. These faithful men dug up her remains, smuggled them out of the country and brought them to Goa. An ancient Portuguese document suggests that the remains were entombed in a black sarcophagus and kept in the window embrasure of the convent of the Augustinian monks in Goa.However, when the convent and church were abandoned and fell into disrepair, many of the relics were looted and plundered. The remains of the good Queen were similarly thought to have been lost. However, recent archaeological excavations have resulted in the discovery of an arm bone and other bone fragments as well as the remains of a black box. After DNA testing, these bones are believed to be the remains of Queen Ketevan.There is little that can be seen today of the gracious and imposing church and monastery which once stood at this site, however, it is still considered worth a visit. Clambering over the old ruins causes one to reflect on the passage of time, and its vagaries.

# Basilica of Bom Jesus

Don’t let its unassuming air fool you, the Bom Jesus Basilica is a World Heritage Monument, and has been christened so by UNESCO. Its un-plastered exterior appears at first glance to be inferior as compared to the sparkling facades of churches like the Se Cathedral, but this little Basilica is rich in art, architecture and history, and the relics of Saint Francis Xavier are enshrined here.

Timings

·         Masses are held regularly at the Bom Jesus Basilica, the timings are as follows

·         Sunday – 8.00am, 9.15am and 6.00pm in Konkani, 10.15am in English

·         Mon to Sat – 7.00am, 8.00am and 6.00pm

·         Mass is also held at the chapel of St. Francis Xavier on the 6th of every month at 10.00am. Holy hour is held on the first Friday of every month at 5.00pm followed by Mass.

·         If you do not want to hear Mass, the Basilica is open to the public for viewing and exploration at the following times,

·         Mon to Sat – 9.00am to 6.30pm

·         Sunday – 10.30am to 6.30pm

Claim to fame : Houses the relics of St. Francis Xavier and is the only Basilica in Goa.

Must View

·         Quadrangular pediment at the top of the un-plastered façade

·         Carved columns both inside and outside

·         Statue of St. Francis Xavier

·         Main altar with carvings and gilding

·         Gilded reredos with the statues of St. Ignatius and the Infant Jesus

The reredos has within it a large statue of St. Ignatius of Loyola protecting the Infant Jesus. His eyes are raised to a carved disc, once more bearing the Jesuit emblem of “IHS”. Above this medallion is a depiction of the Holy Trinity, i.e. The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit.

·         Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament

·         Chapel of St. Francis Xavier

On the southern side of the transept lies the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier. This chapel has carved and gilded columns and wood-carved floral decorations. This is where the relics of the saint are kept. There is a gorgeous silver statue placed in front of the silver casket where the body of St. Francis Xavier reposes

·         Sacristy – chest containing the Golden Rose

·         Painting of the relics of the saint

·         Paintings of the saints

·         Modern art gallery paintings, especially “The Last Judgement” and “Genesis”

The Basilica also contains a modern art gallery with paintings depicting various Biblical scenes. The gallery can be accessed using the stairs near the sacristy. It is one of the largest of its kind in Asia. It contains 36 paintings executed between the years 1973 and 1976. The artist was paid only for the materials used as his talent was given gratis, for the greater glory of God.

History, Construction and Architecture

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a monument typical of the classic forms of plane architecture, introduced by the Society of Jesus, otherwise known as the Jesuits. The façade, which is of granite, represents features of five styles of architecture: Roman, Ionic, Doric, Corinthian and Composite. It is a large single Nave structure built ( 1595-1605) and paid for with legacies left by Dom Jeronimo Mascarenhas, a wealthy Portuguese Captain of Cochin.It is the only monument with a façade not covered with plaster. The plaster was stripped off in 1970 by an over-zealous Portuguese conservationist who believed that this would help preserve the carvings on the façade better. Unfortunately, even though this was soon seen to be a false assumption, no one has put the plaster back.

The foundation stone for this church was laid on the 24^th of November, 1594. Archbishop Rev. Fr. Aleixo de Menezes consecrated the church, on its completion on the 15^th of May 1605. However, it was only raised to the status of “minor Basilica” in 1946.The three-storied structure stands 75ft wide and 78½ft tall. The façade of the church, though un-plastered, is a magnificent example of baroque architecture. It combines elements of Doric, Ionic and Corinthian design, and is divided into four parts.The lowest section has three doors set into it, a large one in the middle with two smaller ones flanking it. The second section has three square windows whose positioning corresponds to that of the doors. The third section has three circular windows whilst the last section forms a quadrangle, lavishly decorated with arabesque. This quadrangular pediment also has “IHS” carved into it. This is the Jesuit emblem and stands for “Iesus Hominum Salvator”, which is Latin for, “Jesus, Saviour of Men”. All the sections have carved basalt pillars. The basalt was mined from Bassein in the North of Goa.

Interior and Artwork

The interior of the church is a study in contrasts. The design in itself is simple, but the floor is laid with the finest marble, and was inlaid with precious stones. The altar is elaborately carved and gilded.The retable of the main altar exhibits a huge statue of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder (along with St. Francis Xavier who was a founding member) of the Society of Jesus and below it, a small image of Bom Jesus (Child Jesus), the patron of the church.On the southern side of the transept lies the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier. This chapel has carved and gilded columns and wood-carved floral decorations. This is where the relics of the saint are kept. There is a gorgeous silver statue placed in front of the silver casket where the body of St. Francis Xavier reposes.

The interior of the Basilica measures 83ft in length, 51ft in width and 61ft in height. It is laid out in the orthodox cruciform fashion with a single nave and transept. The ceiling was once vaulted, but has since been replaced with a simple wooden one. The main altar measures a massive 54ft by 30ft. The interiors, while being furnished with the best of materials show a remarkable simplicity typical of Renaissance design.The Basilica contains two chapels, three altars, a sacristy and a choir loft. There is also a belfry at the back. The door through which one enters stands beneath the choir loft. To the right is an altar which is dedicated to St. Anthony and to the left is a well-carved statue of St. Francis Xavier. On the northern wall of the nave is the cenotaph of Dom Jeronimo Mascarenhas. He was the Captain of Cochin and his estate made possible the construction of the Basilica.
 
The columns which support the choir loft bear plaques inscribed in Portuguese and Latin detailing the dates of the Basilica’s construction and consecration. In the transept are two altars which flank the main one. They are highly carved and decorated and are dedicated to St. Michael and Our Lady of Good Hope.The main altar is extremely well carved and gilded. It is backed by an ornate reredos which stretches from floor to ceiling, its baroque carvings in sharp contrast to the classically plain design of the Basilica. The reredos has within it a large statue of St. Ignatius of Loyola protecting the Infant Jesus. His eyes are raised to a carved disc, once more bearing the Jesuit emblem of “IHS”. Above this medallion is a depiction of the Holy Trinity, i.e. The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit.
 
On the northern side of the transept is the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. On the southern side is the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier. Adjoining this chapel is a corridor leading to the sacristy, accessed by a marvellously carved wooden door. It is a vaulted wooden structure ending in an apse. In this reposes an altar which has an iron chest containing the Golden Rose which was bestowed upon the Se Cathedral by Pope Pius XII.The walls are hung with paintings of the saints and the sacristy also contains a beautifully carved chest of drawers. Near the iron chest is a painting of the relics of St. Francis Xavier, done about 100 years ago.

Modern Art Gallery

The Basilica also contains a modern art gallery with paintings depicting various Biblical scenes. The gallery can be accessed using the stairs near the sacristy. It is one of the largest of its kind in Asia. It contains 36 paintings executed between the years 1973 and 1976. The artist was paid only for the materials used as his talent was given gratis, for the greater glory of God.The most notable paintings are entitled “The Last Judgement” and “Genesis”

Tomb of St. Francis Xavier

Fr. Francis Xavier died of a fever in 1552 on the island of Shangchaun, whilst waiting for a boat to travel to China. His last rites were performed and he was laid to rest in a simple coffin in the Portuguese colony of Malacca. When his remains were disinterred some years later, they were found to be “fresh and intact”. Upon hearing of this, the Vatican canonized him a saint. His remains were buried in three different places before they came to their final resting place in Goa.The arrangements of keeping the body of St Francis Xavier in the Chapel were completed on 24^th April 1659. The mausoleum, in Florentine style, was the offer of the last of the Medici’s, Cosimo III, Duke of Tuscany. It is a masterpiece setting and was made by Giovanni Batista Foggini and assembled in Goa by Placido Francesco Ramponi.The silver casket is made up of silver panels which depict 32 scenes from the life of the saint. These panels were created for this purpose by Goan silversmiths under the supervision of Fr. Marco Mastrilli SJ.

The tomb of the great saint, rests beneath a shower of gilt stars. It has three parts: the altars, the Florentine mausoleum and the silver casket. There are four altars, one on each of the four sides of the tomb. They are constructed of reddish jasper with white strips which are ornamented with flourishes and fringes. There are two Cherubim in each corner. They are made of pure alabaster. In the centre of each altar’s frontispiece there is an emblem in bold relief. Above the altars is a quadrangle of spotted jasper. On all four sides are bronze plaques depicting scenes from the life of the saint.
 
In the first scene we see St. Francis preaching to the Malaccan people. Above the panel is a bronze sun disc and two alabaster angels holding a bronze banner inscribed with the words “Nox inimical fugat”. The second scene shows St. Francis baptisting the Malaccans with his right hand and holding a crucifix in his left. The bronze sun is at it’s zenith above this plaque and the banner held by the angels reads “Ut vitam habeant”. The third scene depicts St Francis being attacked by the Moro islanders with stones and arrows. The bronze medallion shows a lion in a storm and the banner reads “Nihil horum vereor”. The fourth plaque shows the death of St. Francis on the island of Shangchaun surrounded by his disciples. The medallion depicts the setting sun and the banner reads “Major in occasu”. Taken together these four Latin phrases can be roughly translated to mean “I drive away the enemy of the night, that they may have new life and fear not the great setting of the sun”

Above this quadrangle is a balustrade of jasper and it is on this balustrade that the silver coffin rests. There are 32 silver plates which form the four sides of the casket. The scenes that they depict are as follows:

·         Francis lies on the ground with his arms and legs tied, but the cords are miraculously broken.

·         Francis kisses the ulcer of a patient lying in a Venetian hospital.

·         He is visited by St. Jerome as he lies ailing in the hospital of Vicenza.

·         A vision about his future apostolate.

·         A vision about his sister’s prophecy regarding his fate.

·         He saves the secretary of the Portuguese Ambassador while crossing the Alps.

·         He lifts a sick man who dies after receiving communion.

·         He baptizes the people in Travancore.

·         He resuscitates a boy who drowned in a well at Cape Comorin

·         He miraculously cures a man full of sores

·         He drives away the Badagas in Travancore

·         He resuscitates three persons: a man who was buried at Coulao; a boy about to be buried at Multao and another child.

·         He takes money from his empty pockets and gives to a Portuguese beggar at Malyapore.

·         He effects a miraculous cure.

·         A crab restores his crucifix which had fallen into the sea.

·         He preaches in the island of Moro.

·         He preaches in the sea of Malacca and announces victory against the enemies.

·         He converts a Portuguese soldier.

·         He helps the dying Vicar of Malacca.

·         Francis kneels down and on his shoulders there rests a child whom he restores to health.

·         He goes walking from Amanguchi to Meaco.

·         He cures a dumb paralytic in Amanguchi.

·         He cures a deaf Japanese person.

·         He prays on the ship during a storm.

·         He baptizes three kings in Cochin.

·         He cures a religious person in the College of St. Paul.

·         Due to lack of water, he sweetens the sea water, during a voyage.

·         The agony of Francis at Sancian.

·         After his death he is seen by a lady according to his promise.

·         The body dressed in sacerdotal vestments is exposed for public veneration.

·         Francis levitates as he distributes communion in the College of St. Paul.

·         The body is placed in a niche at Chaul with lighted candles.

The casket is topped by a cross standing on a pedestal with the figures of angels, one on either side. The angel placed near where his head rests bears a heart with a halo, whilst the one near his feet has the motto “Satis est! Domine, satis est” which means “It is enough, Oh Lord, it is enough”During the time of the exposition, the plates on the side of the silver casket are removed so that devotees may see the “intact” remains of the saint through the glass urn. The glass urn was put in place after the exposition in 1954, when it was decided that the relics should no longer be directly touched. It was made in the Casa Brandizzi in Rome and the relics were placed inside with all ceremony in 1955, before the whole was placed into the silver casket.

Professed House

The construction of the Professed house, which lies next door to the Basilica, began in 1585 and so predates the Basilica by a few years. It is a two-storied building, built of laterite rock and covered with lime plaster. Its construction was completed in 1589 under the aegis of Br. Domingos Fernandes.This became the mission centre for all Jesuit missions to the eastern regions of the known world. The “Casa Professa”, according to Jesuit canon, was intended for the exercise of the Ministries of the Society of Jesus, and should be conspicuous for its exact adherence to the Jesuit way of life.

Legend and Lore

The legend has it that the Jesuits who wanted to construct the Professed House and later the Basilica met with stiff opposition from the Portuguese administration. They had a house on the property, but were being denied permission to build the church. On the eve of the day when they were to be evicted, the wily priests converted the house into a make-shift church, painting the word “Jesus” on the door and putting up a bell. The next morning the bell was rung, much to the surprise of the inhabitants of the surrounding areas, to call them for Mass. After that, the Portuguese were never able to evict the Jesuits from this place.Another interesting tale from the history of this Basilica is that the Duke of Tuscany, who sponsored the building of the mausoleum of St. Francis Xavier, did so out of gratitude. He had been presented with the pillow upon which the saint’s head had been resting by the Jesuit Procurator General of Goa. He felt that such a great saint deserved a grander resting place.
 
Many stories have originated around the relics of St. Francis Xavier. Some believers claim that his body shrinks every year, and when it shrinks to nothing, it will signify the end of the world. Others tell a tale of a woman, who whilst bending to kiss his feet in devotion bit off his big toe. They say that though the toe was bitten off a corpse it yet bled and so she was caught out and the toe returned to the rest of the relics.Simple yet regal, austere yet opulent, unassuming yet grand, this Basilica has risen from its humble beginnings into a world famous monument that commands respect and worship from religious pilgrims and architectural buffs alike. The atmosphere of the Basilica is cool, calm and majestic. The awe-inspiring feeling of being in the presence of something much greater than oneself is a truly humbling experience.

# Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount

Although its secluded location often leads to this little church being overlooked, it is certainly worth a stop on a tour of Velha Goa (Old Goa). With simple exteriors, lavish interiors and wealth of historical significance, this chapel is what one might call a hidden treasure. Its plain whitewashed walls present a delightful picture at sunset, and the view from its vantage point is truly breath taking.Situated as it is atop the Monte near the Church of St. Cajetan, it overlooks the expanse of the Mandovi and the islands of Devar and Chorao.

Claim to Fame

Plays host to the much acclaimed Monte Music festival, which attracts music buffs from all over every February.
 

Timings

The chapel is open to visitors at the following timings
Mon to Sat – 9.00am to 7.00pm
Sun – 9.00am to 12.00pm

Must View

·         View of the Mandovi from near the chapel

·         Chapel at sunset

·         Plaque commemorating the victory of Afonso de Albuquerque

In 1510 this was the site of the battle between the armies of Afonso de Albuquerque and Sultan Adil Shah, who was trying to retake Goa. To commemorate his victory and give thanks, Afonso de Albuquerque erected this chapel. In 1931 the Archaeological commission had a plaque placed here that, when translated, reads, “Here the Mohammedan artillery stood against Alfonso de Albuquerque to retake Goa in May, 1510”.

·         Eight panelled gilded reredos

·         Altars of St. Anthony

History, Construction and Architecture

It is on the top of the “Monte” that the chapel of Our Lady of the Mount” was built soon after the conquest of Goa to mark the site from where Adil Shah positioned his artillery against the Portuguese forces to retake Goa in 1510. So when Afonso de Albuquerque defeated the Sultan’s forces, he made a vow to construct a church at the very strategic point on the mount. The church was constructed in 1519 and has been rebuilt twice since. 
 

Interior and Artwork

The churches chancel had three altars. The main altar has at its centre the image of Our Lady of the Mount holding the child Jesus. Above it is a picture of the coronation of the Virgin Mary, and below that a picture of Our Lady of Assumption. At the base of the retable are the busts of St. Vincent with a ship and St. Lawrence with a gridiron, the symbol of his martyrdom. The collateral altar is dedicated to St. Anthony.

The nave of the chapel is covered by a barrel vaulted ceiling as is the chancel. However, the breadth of the chancel is less than that of the nave. The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady and its retable is divided into eight sections. In the central niche is a statue of Our Lady of the Mount holding the Baby Jesus, above this is a picture of the Coronation of the BVM and below is Our Lady of Assumption. The picture on the side panels and those on the main altar depict various aspects of the life of Our Lady.

At the base of the retable are two busts, one being St. Vincent who is depicted with a ship and the other is St. Lawrence who is depicted with a gridiron, which is the symbol of his martyrdom. The sub-altars are dedicated to St. Anthony of Lisboa and St. Anthony the Hermit. At the angle of these altars are miniatures of the devil and an inscription in Latin, which translated, reads “my sins are always before me”.

Monte Music Festival

Organized by the Fundacao Oriente in collaboration with the Kala Academy, this festival aims to integrate Indian and Western forms of Classical music. Held in February every year, the festival attracts both performers and music buffs from across various countries and fields. A real must see for any music lover

Trivia

This humble chapel has been the backdrop for many a Bollywood film shoot.

Definitions

·         Mannerist – A style of architecture which rose up in response to the Renaissance Movement, and used architectural forms to emphasize solid and spatial relationships, for eg. Pilasters that stretch from the top to bottom of a façade.

·         Loggia – An exterior gallery or corridor, usually on an upper level whose exterior face is exposed to the elements, usually having only columns or arches for support.

# Church of Mae de Deus (Saligao)

Stark, stern and yet with a glamorous charm all its own, the Mae de Deus or Mother of God Church is a breath-taking site. With its Gothic spires and pristine white walls, it reminds one of a fairytale castle. Situated amidst picturesque surroundings of the typical Goan countryside, this Church at Saligao, which is situated in the Bardez taluka, was built in 1873. It is amongst the finest in the Gothic style and is attractively illuminated at night.

Claim to fame :

It is the finest example of Neo-Gothic architecture in Goa. It houses the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus (Mother of God) which was brought from the ruins of the convent of Mae de Deus at Old Goa.
 

Timings

The church is also open to tourists every day from
9.00am to 12.30pm and from 3.00pm to 5.00pm.
 
Mass Timings

Mon to Sat – 7.00am and 8.00am
Sun – 7.00am, 8.30am and 9.30am

Must View

·         Miraculous statue of Mae de Deus     Read more+

·         Neo-Gothic architecture of the Church, unique amongst the Goan churches

·         Illuminated view of the church after sundown     Read more+

·         Statue of Mae de Deus in the church courtyard

·         Gilded and carved ornamentation inside the church

History, Construction and Architecture

The church dedicated to the Mother of God or Our Lady came to be built at Bardez in the 19^th Century. Its foundation stone was laid on 7^th February 1867 and the Saligao Church was inaugurated on November 26, 1873.
The Church building is stunningly distinctive with its jutting spires, each crowned with a cross. It has buttresses supporting its exterior walls and belfry. The courtyard of the Church contains another statue of the Mae de Deus, this one made of black stone.

Interior and Artwork

The interiors of the church are similarly imposing. In addition to the miraculous statue of the Mae de Deus which reposes near the altar, there is an altar stone which was also taken from the convent in Daujim. In addition to the main altar, this church has six sub-altars.
Read more+

Feast

The first Sunday of May is celebrated as the church feast, the feast of Our Lady, the Mother of God. The feast day itself is preceded by a nine day novena, the celebrations and Masses on each day being organized by a different ward of Saligao. Each day, a small group of children are dressed up as angels and they dance before Our Lady and pay homage to her with offerings of flowers. After the novena the celebrations are continued with music and short skits, plays or dances performed by the parishioners.

On the feast day, celebrations are taken a few notches up with a grand procession followed by a firework display. Previously, there was also a dance which was organized by the Saligao Sports Club, called ‘Foxes Night’.

Legend and Lore

Some sources claim that the neighbouring parishes objected to the Saligao church receiving the honour of having the miraculous Mae de Deus statue kept within it. There was even talk of protests and marches, to the dismay of Fr. Camilo Teodorio Rodrigues, the administrator of the church who did not want to give up the statue. The issue was finally settled by the Government Order passed on the 20^th of June, 1865 which was approved by the King of Portugal.

Made possible by the endeavours of the faithful parishioners of Saligao and a singularly beautiful monument for the ages, do stop by this church as you pass it on the Chogm road from Panaji, if only to take a few pictures of its fantastical architecture.

# Church of Our Lady of Rosary

Standing atop the Monte Santo (Holy Hill) and keeping a benevolent watch over Old Goa, is the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. Beautiful in its austereness and simplicity this church is one of the only buildings in Goa that attests to the introduction of Renaissance architecture, brought to Goa by the Portuguese. It is perhaps the most Portuguese of all the Goan churches as it was not influenced by the Goan architectural solutions, which though they have their roots in the Portuguese tradition, have their own unique standing. Additionally, the building remains largely unchanged.

Timings : Open seven days a week from 9 am to 5.30 pm.

Claim to fame : 

The church bears an inscription on the conquest of Goa by Afonso de Albuquerque in 1510. Legend has it that Afonso de Albuquerque surveyed the attack of Adil Shah’s army from this hill and vowed to build a church there to give thanks for his victory.
The church of Our Lady of Rosary is also revered for its connection to St. Francis Xavier, who often taught catechism here when it was first built.

Must See :

·         Tombstone of Garcia De Sa & Cenotaph of Dona Catarina

Set on the floor in front of the altar is the tombstone of the Portuguese governor Garcia De Sa, and set into the northern wall of the chancel is the alabaster Mausoleum, in the Persian style of his wife, Catarina a Piro, who was the first Portuguese woman to arrive in Goa. According to the legend they were married by St Francis Xavier as she lay dying, in fact described as “in Articulo Mortis” which means at the moment of death. Her cenotaph is slightly protruding from the wall and bears on it an inscription in Portuguese, which translated means “Here lies Dona Caterina, wife of Garcia de Sa, who requests the readers of these lines to beg God’s mercy on her soul”

·         Towers andbuttresses

·         Chapels andretables

·         Carvings of the main altar

·         Granite baptismal font

History, Construction and Architecture

Although de Albuquerque vowed to build a church in this spot when he saw his armies marching to victory, this church was not built in his lifetime. He originally constructed a hermitage on this site, which was later converted into the church which stands here today. The construction began in 1544 and took six years to complete.

The architecture of this church presents features of the classic Gothic style along with Portuguese-Manueline style while the Renaissance influence is reflected in the interior vaults and decoration of the retables. In 1931, the Archaeological Committee of Goa placed a marble slab on the walls of the church with the inscription: “From this height, Afonso de Albuquerque watched the re-conquest of Goa on 25/11/1510.”

The church is built of laterite and plastered with lime mortar. The design of this church is exceedingly simple and it has been beautifully restored. The only decorations on its exterior are simple rope twist devices which celebrate the seafaring ways of the Portuguese colonists. These ropes wrapped cornice-style around the towers are very typical of the Manueline style.

The three-storied tower façade of this church is outstanding. There are buttresses built on the front corners of the church, thus giving it the look of a fortress, an air which is only enhanced by its high windows. There are two towers on the corners of the nave. The south tower contains a winding staircase that gives access to the “high choir” on the upper floor of this tower. The North tower contains within it a baptismal chapel on the lower level. The upper level is distinguished by slender columns and has round arched windows in which bells are hung.
The portico of this church is two-storied. The Gothic influences are clearly visible in the rib of the portico the roof is tiled and supported by wooden rafters.

Interior and Artwork

Like its exterior, the interior of this church is also plain. The reredos (screen or decoration behind the altar) is ungilded but beautifully carved.

Set on the floor in front of the altar is the tombstone of the Portuguese governor Garcia De Sa, and set into the northern wall of the chancel is the alabaster Mausoleum, in the Persian style of his wife, Catarina a Piro, who was the first Portuguese woman to arrive in Goa. According to the legend they were married by St Francis Xavier as she lay dying, in fact described as “in Articulo Mortis” which means at the moment of death. Her cenotaph is slightly protruding from the wall and bears on it an inscription in Portuguese, which translated means “Here lies Dona Caterina, wife of Garcia de Sa, who requests the readers of these lines to beg God’s mercy on her soul”

The church is constructed in the orthodox, cruciform fashion with a square apse (the apse is a semicircular recess covered with a hemispherical vault or semi-dome. In Romanesque, Byzantine and Gothic Christian abbey, cathedral and church architecture, the term is applied to a semi-circular or polygonal termination of the main building at the liturgical east end). It as a single nave ,with two chapels opening onto the nave (main body of the church), one in front of, and the other next to the apse. The arches of the chapels open onto the nave at varying heights. The nave once had a ceiling; however this structure collapsed in 1897, damaging the vaults of the chapels. The nave now has an open-tiled roof.The chapels and the chancel (or sanctuary) have star-form rib vaults. The chapels have retables representing the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Christ.
The narthex and the north wall of the church have very similar archways, which are distinctively Renaissance in nature. The retables of the chancel altars and the nave are also very classical in nature.
The church contains three altars. The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary and shows Hindu influences in its carvings of mangoes, cashews and flowers. The baptismal font in this church has been carved out of a single granite slab.
One of the bells, made by Peter Dias Bocarro in 1618, bears an inscription, which translated reads, “Mary was assumed into heaven. The angels rejoice and bless the Lord in praise. Hail Mary, full of grace! The Lord is with thee. Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb Jesus. Holy Mary.”

# Church of St. Ana

Dedicated to St.Ana, it is a remarkable piece of ancient Christian architecture, situated in Talaulim. Built in 1695 on the bank of the Siridao river, its unique feature are the hollow walls through which people could walk in secrecy for confession.

# Church of St. Francis of Assisi

Journeying west from the Se Cathedral, one comes upon the Old Palace of the Archbishop, which serves as a conduit from the cathedral to the Church of St. Francis of Assisi.Thanks in part to its renovation in 1665, this graceful building displays a charming mix of architectural styles and intricately carved artwork. The adjoining convent has long since been converted into the Archaeological Museum and is worth a visit in its own right. No tour of Old Goa could be complete without a visit to this twofold attraction.

Claim to Fame

The blending of Portuguese-Manueline style portal from the older structure into the later Tuscan style building, to produce a unique specimen of architecture. The adjoining convent houses the Museum of Archaeological History.

Timings

The Museum is open 7 days a week and its timings are as follows:
9.00am – 12.30 and 3.00pm to 6.30
The Church is open 6 days a week and the Timings are as follows
Mon to Sat – 7.30am to 6.30pm

Must View List

·         Statue of Our lady of Miracles in the niche in the façade, brought over from Sri Lanka

·         Octagonal towers

·         Manueline architecture of the portal

Built in 1665, the new church retained the portal of the old structure which was in the Portuguese–Manueline style. It is a unique architectural specimen, of this style in the country.

·         Paintings on the interior walls depicting scenes from the Bible

·         Statues of St. Francis of Assisi and Jesus on the altar

·         Baroque and Corinthian carvings on the altar itself

·         Wood Paintings depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi

·         Frescoes with floral decorations

History, Construction and Architecture

The original shrine, constructed by the Fransican monks in 1521 and subsequently enlarged, was showing signs of decay, so a new church was constructed and dedicated to the Holy Spirit. Built in 1665, it retained the portal of the old structure which was in the Portuguese–Manueline style. It is a unique architectural specimen, of this style in the country.The façade of the church is built in the Tuscan style of architecture with only the portal being Manueline since it is a relic from the older structure. The façade is also distinctive in that it is flanked by octagonal towers.

In 1517, eight Franciscan monks landed in Goa. They immediately set to work and built themselves a small chapel. This chapel was completed in 1521 and dedicated to the Holy Ghost. This building was later expanded upon and later consecrated as a church in 1602. However, it was not in good repair and it was later torn down and reconstructed in 1665.The church is built of laterite blocks, covered with lime plaster. The original Manueline entrance way is flanked by two octagonal towers. The façade of the church is three tiered and has a small niche which houses the statue of Our Lady of Miracles which was brought from Jaffna in Sri Lanka.

Interior and Art

In contrast to the simple outer façade the interiors of the church are unabashedly and lavishly decorated in the Baroque style using Corinthian influences. The highlight is the main altar, which has fine examples of this kind of work.The altar is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi and has above it a huge statue of the saint, and another of Jesus. These statues display excellent features and attention to detail. Flanking the altar are superb paintings on wood depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi and the history of the Seraphic Order.Although this church is not as large as the illustrious Se Cathedral, it is beautiful nonetheless. It is a single-nave church with three small chapels on either side of the nave. There are two altars besides the main one, which is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. Behind the altar are rooms which form the sacristy and there is a belfry to the north of the altar. The chapels and the gallery which runs around the top of the church are separated by internal buttresses.
 
Designed in a Baroque style the interior of the church is richly decorated. As you enter, on the left is an intricately carved wooden pulpit, decorated with floral patterns. The interior of the church itself is lavishly decorated with paintings depicting scenes from the Bible. The internal buttress walls have been carved with floral frescoes in the Indo-Portuguese Baroque style.There are inscribed tombstones set into the stone floor of the church, many of which are worthy of note as they have been intricately carved. The main altar is carved and gilded, and beneath the statues of St. Francis of Assisi and Jesus is inscribed the vows of the saint “poverty, humility and obedience”. Beneath the main vault, is a richly carved niche containing the tabernacle, used for the repose of the Blessed Sacrament. The tabernacle is supported by sculptures of the Four Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Convent and Museum of Archaeological History

The Convent was built by the Franciscan friars around 1527 and later expanded. Today it houses the museum, established by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1964. Valuable sculptures and icons of pre-Portuguese era and portraits of Viceroys and Governor- Generals are displayed here.This westward facing church has watched patiently over the faithful and seen the sun set on the Portuguese reign in India. The convent having been at first the simple living quarters of the Franciscan monks, then a convent and now a museum, is a timeless place, well worth a visit.

# Nunnery of Santa Monica in Goa

Standing atop the Monte Santo, resolutely facing north is the Nunnery of Santa Monica. Like a grand old matriarch, the building stands not just with grace and dignity but with formidable beauty and an air of insurmountable defenses; tenderly sheltering those within whilst repelling the whims and fancies of the fickle, shallow world.This nunnery in Goa is named for St. Monica who was the mother of St. Augustine, and it could once accommodate more than 250 inmates. It was a sanctuary not only for nuns, but also for widows willing to devote themselves to the service of God, and for the temporary protection of well-born ladies whose husbands had travelled to far off lands on military conquests or expeditions.

Claim to fame :

The convent enjoyed the patronage of Royalty and was the first nunnery in the east. The convent houses the Miraculous or Weeping Cross in one of the chapels.
 

Timings

The Nunnery, which is now the Museum of Christian Art is open from 9.30 am to 5pm everyday

History, Construction and Architecture

This convent, the Nunnery of Santa Monica was sanctioned in 1598 and the Archbishop Aleixo de Menezes laid the foundation stone in 1606. Construction was completed in 1627. Built like a fortress, this convent is significant for its massive walls and buttresses. The convent has a vast courtyard with a cloister. Its three stories have numerous cells and halls. Massive standing, rather than flying, buttresses characterize the exterior of the convent.
 
On Christmas Eve 1636, a massive fire partially destroyed the building but it was restored by Fr. Diogo de Santa Anna, who was the then administrator and “spiritual father” of the convent.The architecture of the Church and convent reflect a combination of the Tuscan, Corinthian and composite styles. The façade of the Church has two main doorways with basalt frames. The three arched buttresses are solidly constructed and were a later addition to the structure. The road leading to the tip of Monte, runs through these buttresses.The façade of the church prominently features a statue of Santa Monica as well as the symbol of the Holy Ghost. The doors also feature granite carvings of a Caravel, which is a small, highly manoeuvrable Portuguese sailing ship, and a dragon.
 
The façade of the convent bears a carving of the symbols of the Eucharist, the Paschal Lamb and Holy Ghost along with an inscription. The convent itself is quadrangular. It has three stories and is built around a courtyard, called the Vale de Lirios, which means lily of the valley. The courtyard also contained a cloister. In the centre of this courtyard was a well, known as the Font de Salvador.The walls of the nunnery are massive and solidly constructed. They were said to be so strong that the relative strength of other buildings was measured against them, “my house is well-built, and it is as strong as the walls of Santa Monica”.

Interior and Artwork

The convent itself is massive and consists of three floors. There were various cells and rooms to accommodate the residents of the convent. The Church of the Weeping Cross is attached to the south of the convent. It has four altars; the main one is dedicated to St. Monica, the others to St. Augustine the Bom Jesus and the Miraculous Cross. The vaults over some of the spaces were enriched with scenes from the bible, similar to that of the Sistine chapel in Rome.On the 8^th of February 1636, the statue of Christ on the Cross of Inside is said to have opened its eyes whilst blood flowed from the wounds as if it were living. The same miracle took place once more, four days later in the presence of the Viceroy, Archbishop and other high ranking church officials. The Archdiocese of Goa celebrates its festival on the 27^th of November.

The convent contained within it eight dormitories. They were Madre de Deus which had eight cells; Santa Anna which had sixteen Divino Salvador which had eleven; Santo Agostinho which had sixteen, Sepulcro, Belem, Senora de Candeia and De Cima. These dormitories were only for the inmates of the convent and there were separate, special dormitories for the servants.The ground floor of the convent had a gate known as the Porta de Fora, or the outer door. Through this, visitors were allowed to talk with the nuns. This opened onto the apartments call Aposentos de Portiero and Locutorio de Fora. Beyond this was the Portaria de clausara, the door of the cloister and the Casa de Rodo, and a nun remained in charge of the keys. The door between these two was the Porta de probicao and no one was allowed to enter without the express written permission of the Bishop. The penalty for violating this rule was instant excommunication.
 
The interior of the Church of the Weeping Cross blends the Doric and composite styles of architecture. The image of the Christ which was said to have wept blood was previously kept in the choir loft, but now occupies a place of honour in a tribune in the nave of the church.The main altar of the church has magnificent retable divided in three. In the first section stands a statue of St. Augustine, flanked by St. Thomas of Vila Nova and St. Ambrosius, the second section has a statue of St. Monica, to whom the altar is consecrated, and she has on either side of her St. Rita and St. Melania and the third section has a representation of Calvary with the saints Peter and Paul on either side.The pulpit too is artistically carved with sculptures of Our Lady of Piety, St. Augustine and two Augustinian bishops. On either side of the altar are carved angels, interestingly enough, with cashew shaped earrings.

Life of the Nuns

The nuns in this convent were cloistered and lived a hard and frugal existence. They were allowed no contact with the outside world and even family visits were rarely permitted, and then only under strict supervision.They were divided into two groups within the convent. The nuns of the black veil were only those ladies of Portuguese descent whilst the nuns of the white veil were of native Goan descent. Although the government recommended that this distinction be abolished they were largely ignored.

The nuns had a solitary and frugal existence within the walls of the cloister. After a novice entered the convent her hair was shorn before she took up the veil. Family members were only allowed two visits a month, at that no male family members apart from fathers, brothers and paternal uncles, and all the visits had to be supervised. They were not allowed any visitors on communion days, which were twice a week, feast days and other days of obligation or during the periods of Advent and Lent.Along with meditation and prayer the nuns also occupied themselves with needlework, gardening and cooking. They made vestments for the priests as well as altar cloths and banners. It is said that one such banner was made for the Murmagao fort to give blessings, strength and courage during the Dutch invasion. The art of making artificial flowers is also attributed to them.
 
The nuns were accomplished cooks and made preserves of jams and jellies as well as syrups and sweets. Their gardens too were beautiful and well-tended, growing various types of fruits and flowers. The only male visitors, besides the close family members were the doctor, in case of illness and the Archbishop who visited the convent annually. The nuns even heard mass only from the choir loft, from where they could observe the mass without being seen.The nuns also had penitence rooms where they practiced various disciplinary techniques including self-flagellation with ropes or leather straps.Their numbers dwindled through the years until the convent was closed as a nunnery after the last sister residing there died, and was reinstated as a church in 1968.

Legend and Lore

One story, which has in fact been attested to by many and recorded in the Secretariat of the government of Goa, states that Sr. Maria de Jesus died on the convent premises, at the age of 78 with stigmata present on her hands and feet. This was apparently verified by the physicians of that time.

Today this convent has been converted into the Museum of Christian Art, whilst the old Monastery of Santa Monica houses the Mater Dei Institute, for the formation of the faith for women from all religious congregations in India.

On your way to the museum, it is well worth it to stop by the chapel of the Weeping cross, and to admire the massive and formidable building which has stood the test of time, relentlessly guarding its inmates from the vices and foibles of life in the outer world.

# Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

Not all of Goa’s myriad ancient churches are concentrated in Velha Goa. A notable exception is the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church which is located in Panaji, the capital city of Goa. It is possessed of a singularly distinctive appearance thanks to the double flights of steps that zigzag across the hillside on which it is built.True to its name, the façade of this church is painted an immaculate, sparkling white. To the untrained eye, this might even belie the actual age and antiquity of this church.

Claim to Fame

This church houses the ancient bell that was removed from the Augustinian ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Grace. This bell is considered to be the second largest of its kind in Goa, surpassed only by the Golden Bell which resides in the Se Cathedral.
 

Timings

Being a functioning Parish, you can hear Mass at this church at the following times
Sunday – 7.00am, 8.15am, 9.30am, 10.30am and 5.30pm
The church is also open to the public every day from 9.00am – 12.30pm and 3.30pm – 7.30pm

Must View

·         The Augustinian bell housed in the main belfry.

This bell was rescued from the ruins of the Augustinian church of Our Lady of Grace, on the Monte Santo and initially installed in the chapel at the Fort Aguada. However the decision was later taken to install it in this, a more prominent church, instead. The bell was so heavy (2250kgs) that they needed to reinforce the structure before it could bear the added load. It is now housed in a tall belfry atop the church and there is a sign attached to the rope which asks that the bell not be rung.

·         Distinctive zigzagging stairway

The stairway was modelled after that of the Bom Jesus de Braga, Portugal with one middle and four side landings arranged in perfect symmetry. The middle landing has a statue of Our Lady on a 5m high plinth that was installed in 1954.

·         Two towers on either side of the façade

·         View of Panaji from the church steps

·         View of the church after sunset when the façade is lit by a multitude of lights

·         Statue of St. Francis Xavier, in the centre of the reredos

·         Carved altars and pulpits

·         Marble statues of St. Peter and St. Paul which flank the altar

·         Chapel of St. Francis Xavier

History, Construction and Architecture

The original construction on this site is believed to have been a chapel, built in 1541, so that sailors could give thanks to God for delivering them safely to Goa and avoiding the perils of the sea, before continuing their journey to Velha Goa.This chapel was later rebuilt, in 1619, into the church that stands there today. The architecture of the present church is a beautiful blend of the Portuguese-Baroque and Goan styles. The imposing façade is distinctive with its two towers and even taller belfry. It can be seen from a great distance, and is sometimes known as the ‘crown’ of Panaji.To reach the church, you have to climb 78 steps. This zigzagging double staircase was a later addition, added in 1871 after the land in front of the church was reclaimed, at the same time the pediment and belfry was strengthened in preparation for the installation of the heavy Augustinian bell.

Interior and Art

The interior of this church is comparatively simple, especially when one compares it to the profusely decorated reredoses and carvings that one sees in the churches in Old Goa. However, the decoration has been skilfully and gracefully executed both on the main altar and on the two sub-altars which flank it.The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, known as Nossa Senhora da Immaculada Conceicao in Portuguese. The altar on the right is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary while the one on the left is dedicated to the Crucifixion of Christ.

The church is laid out in the orthodox cruciform fashion with a nave and a transept. The main altar has a bas-relief carving of the Last Supper of Jesus with his Apostles. The pulpit has a depiction of the descending of the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove. The main altar is backed by a fantastically carved and gilded reredos, where the statue of St. Francis Xavier enjoys pride of place.The two sub-altars are also noteworthy for the carving and gilt work and they are flanked by statues of St. Peter and St. Paul. In the southern part of the transept is the chapel of St. Francis Xavier, which is very popular amongst the visitors to this church.

Festival

On the 8th of December this church celebrates the feast of the Immaculate Conception with great pomp and fervour. The celebrations are preceded by a nine day novena to Our Lady. The church is decorated with a profusion of lights and the vaulted ceiling is strung with blue and white flowers which reflect the colour scheme of the church (and of Our Lady).After the feast mass the people go in procession with a brass band and the candle sellers come out in force, to sell their wares to the faithful desirous of making offerings to Our Lady to ask for her intercession. After the procession there is often a firework display while the band continues to play festive mandos and fados. People enjoy themselves, walking amongst the stalls selling miniature statuettes, souvenirs, garments, food and drink, to name just a few.

Trivia

If you find the façade of this church familiar, that may be because it has been the backdrop for many a Bollywood movie shoot.Poised as it is on the hilltop, this church has been variously described as the ‘Crown of Panaji’, a ‘great big wedding cake’ like structure and ‘a bride waiting at the altar. One cannot seem to go anywhere in Panaji without passing, or at least seeing this church. However, for the discerning tourist, it is well worth a closer look.

# Se Cathedral, Goa

Standing with its gracious façade facing east to welcome each new day, and to the west of the great square Terreiro de Sabaio, Se Cathedral is the most imposing of all the churches at Old Goa, its vaulted interior overwhelming visitors with its sheer grandeur. Se Cathedral Goa, is dedicated to St. Catherine

Timings
Open everyday from 7.30 am to 6 pm.
Mass Timings
Weekdays – 7.30 am and 6.00 pm
Sunday – 7.15 am, 10.00 am and 4.00 pm

Claim to fame :

The Se Cathedral wast built to commemorate the victory of Afonso Albuquerque, which was won on the feast of St. Catherine of Alexandria, this edifice is the largest church in Asia. It is the Cathedral of the Archbishop of Goa.

With its superb Iberian façade, soaring ceilings, fabulous mosaic work, intricate wood and gilded carvings, the Se Cathedral, also sometimes called St. Catherine’s cathedral is an absolute must-see for any visitor in Goa.

Must See :

·         The existing bell tower containing the Golden Bell

·         The baptismal font used by St. Francis Xavier

·         The main altar with its gilded reredos depicting scenes from the life of St. Catherine of Alexandria as well as her martyrdom.

·         The Chapel of the Cross of Miracles, where a vision of the Christ was seen on the plain and unadorned cross in 1919.

·         The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament with its skillfully carved and gilded wall and ceiling.

·         The wooden filigree screens separating the chapels from the nave.

·         The six additional altars in the transept with the paintings depicting the lives of the saints

·         The 18^th century organ housed in one of the galleries.

·         The statuary and paintings along the walls and in the niches of the pillars, including statues of St. Francis Xavier, St Ignatius of Loyola, St. Peter, St Paul and St. Christopher.

History, Construction and Architecture

The construction of Se Cathedral in Goa started in 1562 and ended in 1652. The hundred years spent on this construction, have indeed been well worth it, as the proud cathedral still stands tall and almost unblemished today. Built on a raised laterite plinth and covered in lime plaster, this cathedral measures 250 feet (76 m) in length, 181 feet (55 m) in breadth whilst its frontispiece stands 115 feet (35 m) high

Interior and Artwork

The interior is laid out in a traditional cruciform shape, even though the exterior appears rectangular. The interior architecture is Corinthian. The main altar is dedicated to St Catherine of Alexandria. Besides the main altar there are eight chapels along the sides of the nave and six altars at the transept.Pope Pius the XII conferred upon this shrine the Golden Rose, which is a gold ornament, a token of reverence and affection. The ornament itself has since been placed on the tomb of St. Francis Xavier.Visitors to this shrine should make it a point to see the magnificent reredos above the main altar whose six gilded panels depict the life of Saint Catherine, the fifteen communion tables, dedicated to Our Lady of Three Needs, Our Lady of Hope and Our Lady of Anguish and the baptismal font, built in 1532 which was used by St. Francis Xavier to baptize converts. Also worth seeing, is the chapel of the Cross of Miracles, where a vision of the Christ has been said to have appeared in 1919.

St. Catherine of Alexandria

Usually numbered among early women martyrs, Catherine of Alexandria holds a special place among the prophetic saints in the church because of her role as philosophical defender of the faith. She is also the patroness of Christian philosophers besides being the patroness of the City of Old Goa, aka Velha Goa or Goa Velha.In Church art, St. Catherine of Alexandria, is depicted wearing a crown, (denoting her royal Birth), holding a book, (denoting knowledge), and steering a spiked wheel (denoting her martyrdom). The reason for this is tradition is to denote the notable epochs in her life.

Legend and Lore

Contrary to the idea that this chapel was built using funds from the Royal Treasury, some sources instead claim that it was built using money from the sale of properties that were impounded by the government.The Cross of Miracles (Khuris Milagre) is also credited with phenomenal power and significance some legends state that it is constantly, if slowly, growing, whilst others claim to have seen water spring from the rock upon which the cross is built.This Cathedral in Goa is not only worth a visit in its own right, but it is also convenient to several other tourist spots. The convent which adjoined the cathedral has been converted into an Archaeological Museum which is open to the public and the world famous Bom Jesus Basilica, lies just on the other side of the square. Small wonder then, that no visit to Goa could be considered complete without gazing at the awe-inspiring art and architecture of this most revered cathedral.

Se Cathedral Goa, is dedicated to St. Catherine

# St. Cajetan’s Church

Undisputedly one of the most beautiful churches in Goa, this gracious old building stands in Old Goa, northeast of the Se Cathedral. Although the Church was originally dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence, it is more commonly known as the Church of St. Cajetan, who was a contemporary of St. Francis Xavier and the founder of the Order of monks called the Theatines.This is probably due to their dedication and the lengths they went to, to get the church built in the first place.

Claim to Fame

It was built to have architectural similarities with St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. It also has superb examples of the Corinthian style.

Timings

The church is open seven days a week from 9.00 am to 7.00pm.

Must View List

·         Statues of St. Peter, St. Paul, St. John and St. Matthew niched in the façade

·         Hemispherical dome, reminiscent of St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome

·         Twin quadrangular belfry towers

·         Four pillars with arches supporting the Cupola

·         Verse from the gospel of Matthew inscribed around the cupola

The cupola has, inscribed around it, the following verse in Latin, “Quaerite primum regnum Dei et haec omnia adjicientur vobis” which in English translates to “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33)

·         Main altar with the beautifully carved altarpiece depicting Our Lady of Divine Providence

·         Paintings of the life of St. Cajetan adorning the walls and pillars

History, Construction and Architecture

This church was built by Italian Monks of the Order of Theatines in 1665. It’s crowned with a huge hemispherical dome, on the pattern of the Roman Basilica of St. Peter. However, instead of two cupolas it exhibits two quadrangular towers.The façade exhibits superb examples of Corinthian architecture. Four statues of St. Paul, St. Peter, St. John the evangelist and St. Matthew wrought in basalt are niched within it. It also has the words, “Domus mea, domus oration/s” which means, “My House is a House of Prayer” etched boldly across the portal.Within the compound of the church is an even more ancient arch with pillars covered in Hindu carvings. These are believed to the only remaining part of the Palace of Adil Shah, Sultan of Bijapur.
 

The construction of the Church and convent began in 1655 and was completed in 1661. The church is built of laterite blocks covered with lime plaster. Although small compared to some of the other Goan churches, it is heralded as being the epitome of art and craftsmanship. The sparkling white façade speaks eloquently as to the European origins of the churches architecture. In keeping with Theatine architectural practices, this church has no towers, but instead boasts two turrets which act as the belfries (bell towers).The frontispiece of the church has Corinthian columns, two stories high supporting a triangular pediment. The cupola is clearly visible, crowned with a lantern. There are also four ornamental niches in the façade containing the statues of the apostles.

Interior and Art

The interior of this church, whilst also Corinthian, shows Baroque, Rococo and Goan influences in the intricately carved and gilded work. There are eight columns that divide the church into a nave with six vaulted lateral chapels.The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence, the patroness of the church. Underneath the altar there is a crypt with a vault resting on four pillars. There are also six more altars, three on each side of the main one.Beneath the dome , there is a 22 meters deep well devised by Fr. Francisco Manco , the architect, in order to provide an outlet for the waters oozing out of the subsoil, which had caused the walls to collapse twice.
 

As you enter the church, there are two fonts containing holy water, which once stood in the cathedral. The story goes that Cosimo III, Duke of Tuscany, donated Carrara marble fonts for holy water to this church, but these were later removed to the cathedral.The church is laid out in the shape of a Greek cross, although it appears oblong from the exterior. The eight columns divide the nave from the chapels on either side, and the four central pillars support the cupola with beautifully carved arches. Inscribed around the cupola is a verse in Latin, which reads “Quaerite primum regnum Dei et haec omnia adjicientur vobis” which in English translates to “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). The windows set around the dome, ensure that the church is always well lit.
 
Below the cupola can be seen a covered well, which was either part of an earlier structure, most likely believed to be a mansion, or strategically placed there by the architect to deal with water seepage from the sub-soil. There is also a crypt which is the final resting place of many of the Theatine friars. Set into a multitude of niches around the vault are carved statues of various saints.The main altar is profusely carved and backed by a gilded reredos. This reredos is unique in that unlike most of the others seen in Goa, it tapers towards the ceiling and is crowned by a sun. The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence. There is a statue of the Nossa Senhora de Divina Providencia seated within the reredos holding a host and chalice. At her feet are two angels and the legend “Comedite panem meum, et bibite vinum quod miscui vobis” the English translation of which is “Eat my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled for you” (Proverbs 9:5)
 
In addition to the main altar there are six more altars, three on either side. These altars have been profusely carved and gilded in the baroque style with twisted shafts and figures of angels. The three on the left are dedicated to St. Clare, the Holy Family and Our Lady of Piety; whilst those on the right are dedicated to St. Agnes, St John and St. Cajetan. These altars also have painting done on canvas, many of which depict the life of St. Cajetan. The paintings are of the Italian School that was popular at the time.Another unusual feature of this church is that it has not one, but two sacristies which are located on either side of the main altar. It is also said that the embalmed bodies of the Portuguese Governors were kept here till they could be sent back to Portugal. The church was used for this purpose until 1842.

Convent of St. Cajetan

Built on a much smaller scale than the church the convent is nevertheless an imposing structure. Its closure in 1835 forced sixteen Theatines to leave. It was then used as a residence for the Governors of Goa when they came to Old Goa for religious functions. Later still the gallery of portraits of the Viceroys and Governors was transferred here along with the ‘Museu da India Portuguesa’.Today however, the convent has once again been repurposed and in some part returned to its roots. It now houses the Pope Pius X institute for the Pastoral training of priests.

Legend and Lore

The story goes that three Italian Theatine monks were sent to India by Pope Urban VIII to spread Christianity in Golconda. Not being allowed to preach there, they came to Goa in 1640 and soon thereafter started the construction of a Hospital on the Monte Santo between the Nunnery of Santa Monica and the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. However, as they were foreigners, the Viceroy of Goa stopped the construction and evicted them from Goa in 1645.Undeterred, the monks made their way to Portugal and petitioned the king himself representing the need for the hospital and asking that they be allowed to build it. King Dom Joao IV was impressed by their dedication and gave them his permission. They returned to Goa and built their hospital in 1650. Later, in 1655, they started building the Church and the convent which was attached to it.
 
The Theatines are also credited as being the ones who advocated that Holy Communion should be distributed to all Goan Catholics irrespective of their social class or caste. Prior to this Communion was reserved only for the higher classes of Indian Catholics. The Theatines demanded that the Archbishop convene a public conference and put forward many arguments from Scripture to support their convictions.An unrivalled depiction of beauty and grace, this church is yet another must see on a visit to Old Goa. The atmosphere is one of cool and collected reflection as it watches over its people, witnessing days stretch into years in the vast ocean of time.

# Rachol Seminary

Situated just off the banks of the Zuari river, 5 kilometers from Margao in South Goa and built in 1574—1610, this majestic seminary is a centre of learning in philosophy and theology.

# Reis Magos Church in Verem

“Reis Magos” is Portuguese for the Three Magi, otherwise known as the Three Wise Men. Like these esteemed gentlemen, in order to reach this church one must stray off the beaten path. The little hamlet of Reis Magos, is the home of not one, but two famous landmarks, the Reis Magos Church and the Reis Magos fort. Located on the banks of the river Mandovi, the sparkling white façade of this church is easily visible from the opposite banks. To reach it, however, one must turn off the road leading to the tourist hotspots of Calangute and Baga. A little turn just past the Verem Bazaar past the Hindu tree shrine will lead you to this church.Notwithstanding its slightly out of the way location, this church was once the residence of all Catholic Dignitaries and also a Mission Centre of the Franciscan order.

Timings

Open everyday – 6.00am to 11.00pm
 
Mass Timings

Weekdays – 7.30 am
Sundays – 7.30 am and 5.00pm

Claim to fame : 

It was the first church to be built in the Bardez Taluka, and posseses a multi-coloured wood relief of the Magi. It is also one of only three places in Goa which celebrates the Epiphany (Feast of the Three Kings) with processions and re-enactments.

Must View

·         Bas relief lions at the base of the steps showing Hindu influences in Portuguese architecture.

·         Shrine to Our Lady of Health, built in 1510 to commemorate the Portuguese victory that won them Bardez.

·         Carving of the Three Magi bearing their gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh for the Holy Babe.

·         Tomb of Dom Luis de Ataide, the famous Portuguese Viceroy

Dom Luis de Ataide, was a famous Portuguese warrior, who according to legend, accomplished the great feat in 1570, of holding at bay an army of 100,000 men and 2000 elephants for ten months, with a battalion of just 7000 men.

History, Construction and Architecture

The Reis Magos church was constructed in 1555 by the Franciscan Friars and was one of the earliest churches built in Goa. It also has the distinction of being the first to be built in the Bardez Taluka.Although the church was built in 1555, the entire interior was redone in 1771, and the towers were added around the year 1776. The church itself sits atop a graceful flight of steps at the base of which can be seen two carved lions reminiscent of Vijaynagar temple architecture.The length of the church runs along the Mandovi river. The breadth of the church has along it five doorways and Corinthian columns dividing the compartments of the façade. The church also displays a high, carved gable, decorated with scroll work and given added majesty by the presence of the Royal Insignia.Near the base of the steps is a small shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Health. This was erected on the spot to commemorate the victory of Afonso de Albuquerque over the outpost in 1510.

Interior and Artwork

The church is dedicated to St Jerome. The church interiors are quite impressive with the highlight being the multi-colored wood relief showing The Three Wise Men bearing gifts to the baby Jesus.The church contains a high main altar backed by an impressively carved reredos. Carved out of various coloured woods, the reredos depicts the Three Magi offering their gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh to the Infant Jesus and His kneeling Mother.The church contains the tombs of two Portuguese Viceroys, one of whom was Dom Luis de Ataide. An impressively carved slab in the corridor of the church marks his tomb. This church also contains the tomb of another Portuguese Viceroy. The inscriptions on these in both Portuguese and Latin are still clearly visible.

Festival

Every year on the 6^th of January, Reis Magos comes alive with the colorful “Festa dos Reis Magos” when the story of the Three Kings is re-enacted by the locals, with three youths playing the parts of the Magi. The locals celebrate the journey of the Three Kings who went to worship the Holy Infant Jesus with a procession that starts from the church and goes around the village.A beautiful and dignified church, the Reis Magos is definitely worth a visit, especially if you happen to be in Goa on the festival days, in which case you might like to join in the procession to relive the pilgrimage of the Three Magi, following the star to Bethlehem.

# Ruins of the Church of St. Augustine

Close to the Nunnery of Santa Monica, stands a lofty tower still proudly, defying the vagaries of the weather and the ravages time. This is the only surviving tower of the four that were once a part of the Church of St. Augustine. What was once perhaps the biggest Church in Goa is now a crumbling ruin, largely deserted, with its glory days behind it. However, this ruin still has some secrets left to divulge to those who are willing to dig deep enough to find them.
 
Claim to fame :

In 1986, UNESCO declared the ruins to be a World Heritage Site. It is also the site of the archaeological discovery of the remains of Queen Ketevan.
 
History, Construction and Architecture

This complex was built by the Augustinian order. It comprised the church of Our Lady of Grace, the Convent of Saint Augustine, The College of Populo, and The Seminary of St Guilherme.The church is dedicated to Our Lady of Grace. Its construction was started in 1597 and was completed around 1602. Originally comprising of four towers and a massive vault, the dimensions of this superb edifice placed it on par with the great imperial cathedrals of the Renaissance era.

The tower which still stands is built of laterite. This great structure stands four stories high. It was intended as a belfry. The ancient bell that once resided there has since been moved, first to the Fort Aguada and more recently to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church at Panaji, where it remains till today.The original Church of Our Lady of Grace once contained eight chapels, four altars and had a convent attached to it. Upon entering the church, there was a High altar backed by a richly carved retable, the whole structure being supported by soaring pillars, the vestiges of which remain visible today.The immense vault of the church collapsed in part due to its weight, and the nave of the church is now open to the sky. There was also an immense choir loft, capable of holding a large chorus of monks.The convent was built on three levels and once contained two cloisters, numerous corridors, pillars and galleries. The remains of a refectory i.e. dining hall, Guest house and Infirmary, all of which were very spacious, have also been found. It also had vast dormitories and numerous cells where the monks spent their day to day lives.

Abandonment and Ruination

In 1835, the Augustinians were expelled from Goa and as a result, the church was abandoned. In 1846, the main vault of the church collapsed and the convent rapidly decayed. Of all the majestic buildings, that once stood here, all that is left to see today is the belfry of the tower that soared 150 ft. high.

Legend and Lore

An old tale recounts how the vault of the church was problematic to construct and in fact fell down twice whilst being erected. The third time that it was put up, the architect, to show his confidence in his design stationed his only son within the church and ordered that a cannon be fired at the structure. Fortunately, his confidence was not misplaced, and the structure held.

Archaeological Heritage

Even though the original church lies in ruins, it becomes ever more apparent that it yet has unplumbed depths. Careful study beginning in 1990 has recently resulted in the discovery of the remains of the lost martyr, Queen Ketevan of Georgia.Queen Ketevan was the dowager queen of Kakheti, a kingdom of Georgia. After the death of her husband, the king, her kingdom was invaded by Shah Abbas I.Having easily conquered the kingdom, he took the Queen prisoner and she languished in Iran for almost a decade. In 1624, she was served an ultimatum by Shah Abbas I, she could convert to Islam and join his harem, or be tortured and executed. The Queen chose to die for her faith.

Accordingly, she was tortured by being stripped to the waist and having her flesh torn off with the use of red hot pincers before being strangled to death with a bow string. This took place on the 22^nd of September 1624.She was then buried, without ceremony. However she had, in her last days, befriended two Augustinian monks. These faithful men dug up her remains, smuggled them out of the country and brought them to Goa. An ancient Portuguese document suggests that the remains were entombed in a black sarcophagus and kept in the window embrasure of the convent of the Augustinian monks in Goa.However, when the convent and church were abandoned and fell into disrepair, many of the relics were looted and plundered. The remains of the good Queen were similarly thought to have been lost. However, recent archaeological excavations have resulted in the discovery of an arm bone and other bone fragments as well as the remains of a black box. After DNA testing, these bones are believed to be the remains of Queen Ketevan.There is little that can be seen today of the gracious and imposing church and monastery which once stood at this site, however, it is still considered worth a visit. Clambering over the old ruins causes one to reflect on the passage of time, and its vagaries.

# Bonderam
 
By August, the fields brim with life. A drive through Divar takes you through long stretches of paddy crops ready for reaping. In such blissful environs you would be surprised that once mock battles were staged by the villagers and boundaries drawn to protect their fields. When questions arose on the method to demarcate boundary lines, the Portuguese government came up with the solution of using colourful bandeiras or flags.That’s where the festival got its name. And it still continues to be celebrated by two wards: Sao Piedade and Malar. Today this festival has achieved international fame and the day is prominently slotted in travel itineraries well in advance.
 
The day’s events begin with the customary flag off before the procession , recalling old traditions, makes its way to the various wards along the boundary lines. In the old days, the celebration was restricted to the flag parade and playful battles with pop-guns (fotash). But with mischief makers overusing the fotash, its use was banned. But with the float parade making its way into the celebrations, the festival grew in scale and attracted huge crowds from all parts of Goa, the rest of the country and the world.While the main festival is held in the last week of August, Malar kicks off the Bonderam celebrations a week before. Though smaller in scale , it still retains its authentic charm. The preparations begin weeks before with youngsters practicing their moves and the elders getting other arrangements in place.
 
The floats are carefully and artistically pieced together by the locals.Two years ago, Marius Fernandes, Goa’s festekar , introduced the Bonderachi pasoi, a heritage walk through the wards that allows guests to meet with the locals, listen to their old stories and eat local food. The entertainment program continues once the group gets back to the main venue.The next day, the first corn is cut and offered for blessings to the gods
 
# Ghadanchi Jatra
The unique festival of deity Sri Dev Bhabreshwar is held annually at Khobrawado, Calangute in North Goa. This festival is famously known as “Kelyanchi” or “Ghadanchi Jatra” (Festival of Banana Bunches), as devotees offer an entire bunch of bananas to this deity. The shrine is located on the famous beach stretch between Calangute & Baga.In a day, over 2500 bunches of bananas are offered to the deity. These bunches are then tied to a make-do wooden frame, over the deity, creating an aesthetic roof of banana bunches. The additional bunches (raw or ripe) are auctioned, every evening.This festival is celebrated every year in the month of February attracting thousands of locals and tourists.
 
# Goa Carnaval 2023
 
The Goa Carnaval, also known as Carnaval, is a vibrant and colourful festival that takes place annually in the state of Goa, India. Today, the festival has become one of the most popular and well-known cultural events in India, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The festival typically takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent and features a range of events and activities that showcase the unique heritage and traditions of Goa. These include parades, music performances, dance competitions, food festivals, and cultural displays.
The highlight of Carnaval is the parade, which winds through the streets of major Goan towns and cities across the state. The parade features a variety of floats, dancers, and musicians, all dressed in elaborate costumes. The procession is led by King Momo, a mythical figure who is said to be the king of Carnaval.
Carnaval is a time of joy, celebration, and cultural expression, and has become an important part of the Goan calendar. During the festival, the streets of Goa come alive with a festive atmosphere that is unlike anything else in India.
Visitors can expect to enjoy traditional Goan cuisine, including seafood delicacies and refreshing drinks that the region is well known for. The festival is a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich and diverse culture of Goa and to celebrate with locals and visitors alike.
 
# History Of Carnaval
 
The history of Carnaval dates back to the Portuguese colonial era when the festival was introduced to celebrate the arrival of the season of Lent. The word ‘Carnaval’ is derived from the Latin word ‘carne vale’, which means ‘farewell to meat’, as Lent is a period of fasting and abstinence.
Goa was a colony of Portugal for over 450 years, and during this time, the Portuguese influence on the culture and traditions of Goa was significant. The first recorded instance of Carnaval celebrations in Goa dates back to the mid-18th century, and the festival was known as ‘Entrudo’ at the time.
During the festival, people would indulge in merrymaking and excess, with street parties, feasts, and dancing. The tradition of throwing coloured powder and water at each other also became a popular part of the festivities.
After India gained independence from British rule in 1947, Goa remained under Portuguese control until 1961. It was during this time that the modern-day version of the Goa Carnaval began to take shape. It was modelled after the Rio Carnaval of Brazil by a local musician named Timoteo Fernandes to attract tourists.
The festival was seen as an opportunity to celebrate Goan culture and traditions, and it was also a way for the local people to protest against the Portuguese regime. Today, it has evolved into a major cultural event celebrated by the various different communities of the state.
 
# Dates And Locations
 
The Carnaval takes place annually in the month of February or March, depending on the date of Easter. The festival typically lasts for four days. For the year 2023, the Carnaval will take on the 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st of February.
The Goa Carnaval is celebrated in towns and cities across the state, but the main centre of the festivities is the capital city of Panaji. The Carnaval parade in Panaji is the largest and most elaborate, and it draws thousands of visitors.
In addition to Panaji, other major towns and cities across Goa also hold their own Carnaval celebrations. Other cities the Carnaval will be held at include Margao, Vasco da Gama, Mapusa, Porvorim and Morjim. The Carnaval celebrations are also held in many villages and small towns across the state, with each community adding its unique flavour and style to the festivities.
 
# Chikhal Kalo
 
Marcel, a charming village situated in Goa, India, is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, abundant foliage, and tranquil ambience. Nestled amidst captivating landscapes, the village serves as a serene sanctuary, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city life. Despite its small size, Marcel provides a captivating glimpse into the traditional Goan way of life, presenting a serene getaway for its visitors.
 
Within the village, an enthralling traditional festivity called Chikhal Kalo takes place, translating to “Mud Bath.” This celebration pays homage to the profound bond shared between the farming community of Goa and our nurturing Mother Earth.
 
Chikhal Kalo, a religious festival exclusive to the village of Marcel in Goa, is a rare combination of devotion and enjoyment. It occurs annually on the 11th day of the Hindu month of Ashadh, held within the expansive grounds of the Devki Krishna temple. The arrival of the monsoon ensures that the temple premises are transformed into a muddy terrain, which becomes a vital component of the ensuing excitement.
 
In addition to lively dancing, the festival features traditional games like chendu fali (resembling cricket) and gilli danda. The slippery mud surface induces participants to repeatedly tumble and become coated in mud—an integral part of the ritual, hence the name Chikhal Kalo. Embracing the essence of the tradition, individuals eagerly immerse themselves in the joyous muddiness, reveling in the experience.
 
Join us for the vibrant and exhilarating Chikhal Kalo Festival, a cherished celebration of tradition and joy, taking place on the 29th of June at the magnificent Devki Krishna temple in Marcel, Goa. Get ready for a day filled with devotional celebrations, cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories!
 
Date: June 28th to 30th
Venue: Devki Krishna Temple, Marcel, Goa
 
# Highlights of the Chikhal Kalo Festival
 
a.    Tradition and Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Goa as we honor the deep bond between the farming community and Mother Earth.
b.    Devotional Celebrations: Witness the enchanting rituals and ceremonies performed at the Devki Krishna temple, infusing the atmosphere with spirituality and reverence.
c.    Joyous Mud Bath: Discover the thrill of Chikhal Kalo, the festival’s centerpiece. Engage in the exhilarating tradition of playing in the mud, where the temple grounds transform into a playground of joy and merriment.
d.    Cultural Performances: Delight in captivating cultural performances showcasing the vibrant arts and traditions of Goa. From mesmerizing folk dances to soulful music, experience the rich tapestry of Goan culture come alive on stage.
e.    Traditional Games: Test your skills and have fun with activities like chendu fali (similar to cricket) and gilli danda, creating joyful moments of friendly competition.
f.     Delectable Cuisine: Savor traditional dishes prepared with love and care, tantalizing your taste buds with the vibrant spices and unique ingredients of Goa.
g.    Community Bonding: Celebrate togetherness and connect with the warm-hearted people of Marcel as the entire community comes together for this festive extravaganza.
 
# Chorotsav
 
The spring festival is something to be experienced in villages across the length and breadth of Goa. It is the time of year when villagers settled elsewhere return to their roots to participate in the festive season. Many villages are known for some unique feature of their own and are identified by these singular festivals.Amongst the many festivals and rituals, Chorotsav, held during Shigmo or Holi in other parts of the country, is one that spreads joy to the villagers of Zarme in Mauxi, about 6 kms from Valpoi. Yet another place known for this festival is Caranzol in Savordem in Sattari taluka.
 
The festival forms a chapter in the village’s history. The story revolves around some youths who were killed by the villagers as they were mistaken to be robbers (Chors), though no one knows the exact history of this age-old practice. The story goes that in the past, people commuted through the forest for work or to collect produce from nature’s bounty. They travelled from village to village from the foothills, climbing across the Western Ghats. During one such daily routine, youths from a neighbouring village who were suspected to have commited robbery were killed. The distraught families of the youth, in search of their loved ones, learn of the tragic fate that had befallen them. The villagers then understand their folly and in order not invite a curse on themselves, repent over their grave error. The villagers of these two places play out an act as punishment. The participating youths are called Chors. In all, eight youths participate in Zarme while a similar act is played by nine youths in Caranzol.
 
It is quite a task before the actual event begins as the preparations take a while and the act folds up within 10 to 20 minutes in front of the Saptamatrika temple. In this risky operation performed on a full moon night and held at a sacred place called Chavatho, four youths are buried in a pit with only their heads above the surface. Four others have their heads buried below the ground with the rest of the body exposed on the surface with swords in their hands. A large audience gathers to witness this event with excitement as the drumbeats fall silent and the Chors are revealed to the enthusiastic crowd.
 
These dramatics are best viewed at Caranzol in front of the Kuldevta temple where seven Chors are buried with one raised on a spear and another lying on a platform wearing a garland of leaves. The event begins after an invocation near a place called Wadakade (meaning ‘near a Banyan plant’).Chorotsav is a festival during Shigmo that reminds one of the ancestral practice of repentance and one which is never missed by the regulars. It is also a signature event in the historic village of Mauxi, also known for its rock art.The place, about 66 kms from Panaji, is easily reached via Valpoi.
 
# Divzam
 
Goa is not defined just by what’s seen along the coast. Its rich traditions define Goa’s socio-cultural heritage.Casual visitors may not know of this heritage. While a festival like Diwali is widely celebrated, Goa has another unique celebration that is also associated with light. It’s known as Divzam. This folk tradition can be seen during the various temple zatras held across the State. A divzam is a special lamp, now made in metal.People of select communities commemorate this festival. These include the Gurav, Naique, Gaude, Dessai, Dhobi, Mahar, Chambar, Malo, Mest and Cumbar who are entrusted with following and keeping up this tradition. Morjim, Chopdem, Mandrem, Dhargal, Khorgao and Siolim are some of the villages famous for their celebration of Divzam.
 
The participants first observe a fast and thereafter visit the temple to pray. The temple priest takes the divzam and does the aarti before handing it back to them. Then the palki with the idol is taken in procession around the temple. Special food is cooked in the temple and a plate is kept before the deity. There are certain rituals to be followed by the participants. For instance, for first time performers, young girls who have not attained puberty are dressed as young brides to light the lamp.There’s also a special oil that is used to light the dizvam.Apart from the festival of Divzam, Diwali is the next major commemoration. This falls in the month of Kartik and is a celebration of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. Around the villages and towns the darkness of the night is dispelled by the tiny sparkling lights of diyas or earthen lamps. And of course there are the usual firecrackers.
 
# Ganesh Chaturthi
 
The most important and almost the national festival for Goan’s is the Ganesh Chaturthi known as ‘Chovoth’. The festivities run into several days, but minimum at least for one and half days, when puja of Gouri and Mahadev along with Ganapati, is performed. On the Chovoth day, in the morning or evening, a clay idol of Ganapati is brought home. Before that a matov (a small pandal above the place where the idol is place) is prepared with bunches of betel nut, coconut, bananas and branches of mango-trees being necessary ingredients of it. The puja of Ganapati goes on until mid-day. The puja is performed with the help of the pandit. On the second day, in the evening or at night, after performing the uttar puja of the image of Ganapati, it is taken in procession and immersed into a water body be it the sea, creek, river, lake or well. Before the idol is removed from its stand for immersion, it is besought for the welfare of the household and its members.
 
The festival of Chovath or Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in Goa with pomp and gaiety as preparations for this grand celebration begins well in advance with houses spruced up with a new coat of paint besides decorations and multi-coloured lighting. With the community festival gaining prominence in recent times, people travel to different places to view some fascinating presentations of eco-friendly Ganesh idols. The villages of Cumbharjua, Marcel and St Estevan enjoy a just reputation for their giant images of Ganapati made from different raw materials.While the festival is celebrated for one-and-a-half days in most houses, it can stretch upto 11 days. In community celebrations, the idol is worshipped for 9 to 21 days.
 
The celebration at Cumbharjua is very significant as the Ganesh immersion is held on the seventh day on the occasion of Sangod. A villager, Vinod Phadte provided a short brief on how the Sangod festival came into existence, though it is difficult to pinpoint when the custom began. He says, “During Portuguese rule in Goa, the temple of Shri Shantadurga Cumbharjuwekarin was shifted from Corlim to Cumbharjua and then to its present location of Marcel. There was a businessman in Cumbharjua who was in financial difficulties. As a result, he left the Ganesh idol in the temple of the deity. So as a commemoration of the times, the idol is carried on a Devicho Sangod on the 7 th day and then immersed. This tradition led to the origin of the famous Cumbharjua Sangod festival which is celebrated anew every year with enthusiasm.”
 
It is a colourful procession of small canoes and boats carrying floats enacting some mythological scenes, very commonly showcased during the Shigmo parade in the towns of Goa. Sangod involves the tying of two canoes together with a platform or characters to perform some act. In recent times, social messages and political events are also portrayed, which are taken in the right sporting spirit without hurting anyone’s sentiments.People participate in large numbers at this festival with a sizable audience watching the different floats from the banks of Cumbharjua canal and from the bridge, all creating a festive atmosphere.
 
# Sao Joao
Viva Sao Joao!
June sets across Goa. The skies turn grey as the clouds empty themselves across the landscape. It is in this atmosphere that the village wells in Siolim become the centres of much joy and celebration. It’s the fest of Sao Joao.24 June is considered as the fest of St John the Baptist. Some old observances are linked to this festival . Among them, the new son-in-law is invited to the bride’s home to celebrate the feast, in another he is paraded around the village wearing a crown made from fresh flowers and wild berries. He then jumps into the closest well.
 
Today both young and old join in the the festivities of jumping into the well to the sounds of the ghumot and cansaim. They are offered sweets, fruits and feni. However, caution is advised if you’re a visitor and wish to join in the revelry. Jumping into wells is not for everyone.C Alvares’ ‘Sao Joao’ popularised this festival with its catchy tunes. It’s still sung today at such events. The day before, an effigy of Judev is burnt to symbolise the passing of the Old Testament.
 
There are a few places in Goa that are the hotspots for Sao Joao celebrations. In Siolim, the epicenter of the festival, throngs flock to witness the unique float parade along the river in front of the church.Locals get creative with their boats and deck them up in festive colours and themes related to nature. Entertainment programs run throughout the day to add to the celebratory atmosphere.Baga celebrates a special sangodd in which two boats, tied together with bamboos, signify union of body and soul. A stage is set up and a small altar dedicated to St John is made on the boat. In the afternoon, the villagers gather near the cross and then the participants step on board and move on towards Arpora before returning home.
 
# Saptah Celebrations
 
Goa  has been  blessed with  inter-religious harmony  with the various communities  coexisting peacefully. With its busy festive calendar, August is an auspicious month for all religious communities.The blessings of Goa’s gods and goddesses have been sought for a good crop, to ward off evil or  to start a  new chapter in life. In the past,  devotees travelled long distances to pray for protection against plagues and other pestilences.
 
Once such victory over a major disaster is celebrated every Nagpanchi in Vasco-da-Gama. The port town revives its old faith and gratitude to Lord Damodar who rescued their ancestors from the clutches of a dreaded disease. It’s unclear whether this was a plague or cholera.Popular lore dates the tradition to 1898 when the disease wreaked havoc across the town. Locals decided to pay obeisance at  the Lord Damodar temple in Zambaulim. The long, arduous journey was made and the prasad brought back with a coconut placed in the home of a prominent businessman, Anant Joshi.
 
The coconut was installed on July 28, 1898. The place today in the hall of the residence  has been turned  into a small temple.The increasing  faith in Lord Damodar by the locals led to the Saptah celebrations. A 24-hour non-stop bhajan is the highlight along with a week-long mela. The Maharudrap pooja on the  day after Nagpanchmi welcomes about 30 to 40 Brahmins to perform the auspicious rituals.
 
The activities for the Saptah begin with fervour  at 12.30 pm after Nagpanchami  with the offering of a   coconut to Lord Damodar by an elder of the Joshi family. The subsequent recitation of bhajans continues for 24 hours.At night a beautifully decorated tableaux (par) with mythological themes is brought in procession to the temple. The following day, the blessed coconut is paraded on the street along with dindi and chanting. The coconut  is then dipped into the sea before the procession returns home.
 
# Shigmo
 
Shigmo is one of the biggest festivals that falls either in March or April. A spring festival that is celebrated in music, song and dance. The commemorations have moved from the village centres to grand parades through the towns. Large crowds witness the spectacular performances. A float parade winds its way down the streets once the sun sets and the lights come on.The music is typically dhol, taasha and kasale. Usually the festivities revolve around the village Mand. The Mand-dev and folk dieties are an essential part of the traditions. Goa observes two varieties of Shigmo: Dhakla (younger) and Thorla (Elder). The first is celebrated in Tiswadi, Ponda, Calangute and Quepem while the other in Bardez, Sattari, Bicholim and Pernem.
 
In dance, the rombat form is popular. Here groups of dancers join in dressed in colourful attire. The elaborate attire and variety of instruments make this form special.Historic and comic elements combine to impart a rich and unique flavor to this festival.. Both these elements are evident in the different dance forms like Veeramel, Gade, Ghodemodni that highlight the heroic aspect. The comic aspects come through in the Zagor, Ranmalyem, Khele and Romat.Given its nature worship, the dance is dedicated to the gods and goddesses Shantaguru-Kuti, Santeri, Ravalnath, Shantadurga-Damodar and others. The festival also showcases the varied cultural aspects of Goa. Most of these dances are performed at the various Shigmo parades in towns across Goa. It’s a wonderful experience to witness these first hand as Goa’s traditions come alive. All these celebrations culminate at the frenzied climax of Holi, the festival of colours.

# Dudhsagar Waterfalls

The majestic cascade of white water, gushing over the steep, nearly vertical face of the mountain from a spectacular height of 1017ft; is both breath taking and awe inspiring. Translating literally to ‘sea of milk’ the waterfall is located in the Sanguem, and falls into the jurisdiction of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. One can go by road or rail to Kulem railway station and then trek to the waterfall or hire a jeep with a driver to get closer in; however, there will still be a walk to reach the base of the falls. There is also a rather bumpy track that is suitable only for four-wheel drive vehicles, but this track still requires visitors to trek about 1km to reach the base of the falls.

# Aravalem Falls

As the monsoons cover the landscape in green, nature springs into action to the sound of the gushing waterfalls. It is an ideal time to visit the lesser known Arvalem waterfalls in Sanquelim. Located at a 10-minute drive from the Aravalem caves, the 50 metre drop offers a breath-taking sight. The waters gush down into a sizable lake whose banks offer the perfect picnic spot. You can also visit Rudreshwar temple & caves around.

# Kesarval Falls

The beautiful Kesarval falls have a lot more going for them than the magnificence and awe of just another waterfall. These falls, sometimes also known as Kesarval Springs are renowned for their medicinal properties. The waters are purported to heal ailments of the body and to have rejuvenating properties. The minerals in the water come from the hard rock face that it pounds through. The springs are accounted to be a great natural spa.

# Agonda

If you continue driving towards Panaji from Palolem, the next beach is Agonda. It’s long and lonely, fringed with palms and casuarinas and dominated by a large hill to the south.

It’s not safe to swim out too far on this beach. There are very few facilities available here and you are needed to carry all the essentials.

Agonda is a 3 km long beautiful cove of white sand, safely secluded in the palms. There are no tourists, no souvenir stalls, no restaurants—just peace and tranquility. Just the trees, the beach, the big beautiful ocean and you.

It also makes for a great day trip from Colva and Covelossim. For a real adventure, hire a tent and camp for the night, listening to the crashing of the sea waves.

Not far from Agonda beach is Cabo de Rama, untouched by most of the visitors in this region. The atmosphere of the fort creates a sense of history and drama that very few would fail to appreciate. The fort is named after Rama, hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana. According to local legend, Rama stayed here with his wife Sita during the period of his 12-year exile.

The best way to reach this beach is by a scooter or motors bike.

# Aguada

Aguada beach is almost synonymous with the top-notch Fort Aguada Hotel complex, a superb hotel that is built on the cliff, around the remnants of the early 17th century Portuguese fort.

Although access to the beach is not possible through the hotel grounds, which are private, you can walk along Aguada beach, for in India private beaches do not exist.

Drawn by the clientele of the hotel, Aguada beach has cafes, itinerant vendors of everything from Kashmiri carpets to massages, and a good range of water sports.

# Arambol (Harmal)

This is also a foreigners’ haunt with a large number of Tai Chi, non-permanent mehendi or henna, tattoo, yoga and meditation centres.

Harmal Beach is the one place you cannot drive on to, but there are narrow lanes that lead to the higher reaches of the coast. You have to walk down a slope to the beach itself.

The black rocks on the silvery beach make for some pretty dramatic scenery at sunset. Further up near the hill is a pool with soft yellow clay, which is said to have healing properties. Beauticians buy the clay as do the innumerable massage parlours in the area.

# Anjuna

 Anjuna was made famous by the ‘flower power and peace’ generation of the sixties and early seventies. And later by the ‘trance’ parties.

Located about 18 kms from Panaji, the beach is known for its breeze-catching palms, soft sand, and the unusual rocky formation overlying a cove of whitish sand. and black rock that juts into the sea.

It is now famous for its weekly Flea Market, which draws legions of visitors every Wednesday and bargains can be had on apparel, footwear, jewellery, footwear, chess sets—and yak cheese.

The village of Anjuna is a five square mile enclosure nestling between the Arabian Sea and the Hill overlooking the beach.

# Ashwem Beach

 Ashwem beach, also known as Ashvem beach is one of the best kept secrets of North Goa. Located to the north of the capital city of Panaji, this beach offer delightful ocean vistas fringed by the green fronds of the sway coconut palms that pepper the shore.

Where to Go

The Ashwem beach in North Goa extends from the northern banks of the Chapora river almost till the Querim beach near the Terekol River. The beach is about 30km away from the capital city of Panaji and about 19km away from Calangute, one of the most popular tourist spots in North Goa.

When to Go

The tourist season in Goa is from October to March and is at its peak from December to February, when the maximum number of visitors flock to the beaches to enjoy the pleasant, sunny weather and calm seas, perfect for swimming and other water activities. During the summer months from March to June, the beaches are still frequented even though the weather is extremely hot. The monsoon season (June to September) is the least popular due to rough seas and dangerous undercurrents as well as inclement weather.

What to See

The long, pristine stretch of sand that is Ashvem beach is tucked away from the crowds and is an ideal place for tourists who want a quiet vacation soaking up the sun, sand and surf. The seas around Ashwem beach are perfect for swimming in, and the river that runs nearby offers a safe place for youngsters who are unable to handle the waves of the ocean.

You can relax still further by pampering yourself with a spa day at one of the nearby resorts of going for a relaxing Ayurvedic massage. The Ayurvedic massages in this area are known to be of a very high quality and technique. There are a number of beach shacks and resorts that line the shores of the Ashwem and are perfect for a mid-day meal or a stay in the area. The shacks are usually made of coconut palms and bamboo and are known for their excellent and fresh seafood as well as their delicious Goan delicacies. They also serve Continental cuisine for those who prefer milder flavours.

The Ashwem beach is known for its beauty and solitude and is not a hub of activity like other, more frequented beaches like Calangute and Baga. Although there are no water sports and other adventure activities available here, if you’re looking for a peaceful day at the beach, surrounded by scenic beauty then Ashwem is the place for you.

# Baga

 Compared to Calangute, Baga is quieter and also more isolated. The creek, the Retreat House perched on the hill, and fewer tourists, all contribute to its unique beauty. Want to enjoy the thrill of extreme water sports or go fishing in the sea? This is the beach for you!.

# Bambolim Beach

 Located in North Goa, this peaceful little beach is a haven for those who want to enjoy the sand and surf without the crowds that pepper most of the other beaches in North Goa. The beach is a secluded stretch of sand and rocks, lined on the landward side with swathes of swaying coconut palms, which provide a cool and shady place to relax.

Where to Go

The Bambolim beach is located near the little seaside town of Bambolim which is about 7km from Panaji, the capital city of Goa. Although there is no bus service to the beach, it is quite accessible by road and can be reached using the services of a pilot or taxi service.

When to Go

Bambolim beach, like most of the beaches in Goa is at its best during the tourist season, from October to March. Those who choose to visit between March and June, should beware the hot sun, and carry water and sunscreen. From June to September, the monsoon season, the beach has its own peculiar charm, but the sea is not safe to swim in

What to Do

The Bambolim beach is a great place to have a beach picnic and enjoy the quiet and solitude of one of the less frequented beaches in Goa, whilst at the same time, being more accessible than most of the other secluded beaches.

The Bambolim Beach Resort, which is located nearby provides rooms for rent and also has a great restaurant which serves a variety of different cuisines ranging from authentic and spicy Goan fare to cool continental delights.

Unlike most of the other beaches of Goa, the Bambolim beach is not cluttered with vendors and shacks lining the shore cheek by jowl, instead it is a stretch of golden sand interspersed with rocky outcroppings, and of course boarded by the blue waters of the Arabian Sea.

The beach is also a popular hangout for university students who like to chill there for a while after their lectures, since this is the closest beach to the University of Goa. The beach is also popular with fishermen, both pleasure fishing and serious fishing.

# Benaulim

Less than 2 kms south of Colva is the more tranquil beach of Benaulim, is one of the few places in Goa where one can glimpse handicrafts typical to this area.

The best of the traditional rosewood furniture is made here. Also, mythically Benaulim is famous as the place where the legendary Parashuram’s arrow landed by which Goa was created.

Among the more attractive aspects of Benaulim is that it is still rather undiscovered by domestic tourists even though it is a fishing beach. It gets fairly crowded in the evenings and on weekends with local visitors who get off buses about a kilometre away and pour onto the beach.

The Church of St John the Baptist is situated on a hill beyond the village and worth a visit. On the arrival of the monsoon, the Feast of St John the Baptist (Sao Joao) is celebrated as thanksgiving.

Young men wearing crowns of leaves and fruits tour the area singing for gifts. To commemorate the movement of St John in his mother’s womb and Mary’s visit, the young men of this village jump into the locals wells in celebration.

# Betalbatim

North of Colva is Betalbatim Beach which begins a long string of beaches with Majorda, Utorda, Arossim and Velsao at the north. It is a ten kilometre stretch of white sand which is not very crowded.

# Betul

Betul is an important fishing port where all the mechanized boats and deep sea trawlers bring in their catch. Here headlands from the slopes of the Western Ghats protrude into the shore, imparting an imposing backdrop.

Beyond this secluded beach is the hill of Cabo De Rama where the Portuguese built a fort.From the fort, a great view of the sunset on the beach can be viewed. However, there are very few places to stay in Betul.

# Bogmalo

This beach, dominated by a 5-star hotel located right on its edge, is cut apart from both the North and South beach circuit. Just 4 kms from the airport at Dabolim, it is a favourite among the elite classes and has an air of exclusivity.

Although the resort hotel towers above the village, there are still a few smaller and appealing places to stay in.

Windsurfing and water skiing facilities are available.

# Candolim

Candolim is the first beach that can be approached from the city of Panaji and is like a gateway to the other more famous beaches.

Though individual accommodation is available here, there are only a few hotels with restaurants attached.

One highlight of Candolim is the parasailing and water skiing facility, besides other water sports.

# Calangute

Calangute is the most popular beach with thousands thronging it in both the peak and off-season. The waves rise high above as you wash away your city blues, though swimmer need to be a trifle cautious because of the sudden drop and the rising waves. Experienced swimmers will, however, revel in the seas here..

The beach is fringed with popular restaurants and hotels, including the Calangute Residency operated by GTDC. This long, seven-km sweep of sand located 15 kms from Panaji, is called the ‘Queen of Beaches’.

All the travel agencies and tour operators have a base here from where bookings are done for most of the other beaches.

Parasailing at calangute beach

Years of tourism has brought in a tremendous change in the scenario. Hotels and guesthouses stretch uninterrupted from Calangute to Baga. The village of Calangute has all basic facilities like post office, banks, foreign exchange offices, resort companies, all kind of bars and restaurants, besides medical facilities. The number of internet cafes in Calangute might even exceed that of the entire city of Panaji.

Huge showrooms filled with exquisite handicrafts from Kashmir, Tibet, Indonesia, Rajasthan and other exotic places, line up the main road running towards Anjuna.

# Colva

This is the most important beach in the South circuit, equipped with all modern amenities like air-conditioned resort complexes, tourist cottages, discos, besides several stalls, eateries and guest houses—all of which have expanded the village enormously.

With 20 kms of virgin white sands, palm fringed, sun drenched beaches, Colva is the most loved beach in Goa. Unlike Anjuna or Calangute, Colva has gained popularity only lately. Located just 39 kms from the capital Panaji, it was relatively little disturbed and life moved on quietly.

The Church of Our Lady Of Mercy in Colva is famous for its miracle statue of Menino Jesus. The busy road leading from the Church to the beach is where all the facilities are located.

While taking a stroll on Colva Beach, silver carpets of mackerels can be seen shimmering and drying on the golden sands. Fishermen’s motor trawlers huddle in a line offshore.

Tourists and locals frequent the beach for a dip or a walk for a change of air or to sunbathe on the golden sands. The trinket stalls and drink stands on the sands under the moonlight add to the aura of Colva Beach.

# Galgibaga/Turtle Beach

The quiet Galgibaga beach is South Goa is perhaps one of few hidden treasures that Goa has left. The beach is known as one of the three places in Goa that form the nesting grounds of the Olive Ridley turtles, a protected species. The northern portion of this beach is protected as the turtles nesting grounds and gives the beach its nickname, Turtle beach.

Where to Go

This beach is located in the deep south of Goa, on the banks of the Galgibag river. It is about 56km away from Colva, which is a popular beach resort in South Goa and 54km away from Margao, the cultural capital of Goa.

When to Go

As with most other beaches in Goa, the best time to visit is in the winter months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the seas are not so rough. In the summer, despite the heat the beaches are still a great place to be. During the monsoon month the beaches are less frequented because the seas are rough with dangerous undercurrents and inclement weather.

What to Do

Since Galgibaga is one of the least frequented beaches in the South of Goa, there are no beach shacks like there are on most of the other Goan beaches. However there is a resort where one can enjoy a pleasant and peaceful stay, away from the crowds and the bustle of the rest of the state.

The beach itself is a pristine stretch of golden brown sand, fringed with coconut palms and other trees. The seas in the area are known to be quite rough and not always safe to swim in, so caution is advised when venturing out for a dip.

The most famous aspect of Galgibaga is the nesting ground of the Olive Ridley turtles which is protected area at the northern end of the beach. The government of Goa is doing a sterling job of protecting the turtles habitat and nesting area at this beach and at Agonda and Morjim, the two other beaches which are frequented by the Olive Ridley turtles.

# Majorda

This small stretch, about 5 kms north of Colva Beach, is as pretty as a picture, studded with several hotels, the most prominent being the starred Majorda Beach Resort.

Majorda is the village where the Jesuits, fond as they were of the good things of life, discovered the best Goan toddy (sap from the coconut palm), which they used to leaven the bread.Naturally, then, Majorda is the place where the Goans were first trained in the delicate art of baking European breads. The Majordans are still Goa’s best bakers.

The delights of the beach, however, were discovered much earlier, in mythical times.

Legend has it that in the Goan version of the Ramayana, Lord Rama was kidnapped as a child and brought up at Majorda. Later, in pursuit of Sita, he camped at Cabo de Rama – a headland further south – where the stretch of developed beaches ends.

# Miramar

This beautiful ‘urban’ beach, akin to Chowpatty in Mumbai, is located just 3 kms from Panaji. It lies adjoining the estuary of the river Mandovi as it opens into the Arabian Sea.

It was originally known as ‘Gasper Dias Beach’, named after Gaspar Dias, a prosperous landlord and where a Portuguese fort once stood at the fag end of the 16th century.

From the beach across the river is an excellent view of Fort Aguada. With its proximity to Panaji, and located near educational institutions

Miramar is very much both a family beach and a meeting point for young people. It is also a hot spot for fitness fiends and walkers.

Tourists love the familiar atmosphere. Numerous hotels, including the spacious and well laid out Miramar Residency run by GTDC, dot the area.

The beach is crowded with locals and tourists alike on most days. A memorial to Goa’s first chief minister, the late Dayanand Bandodkar is located here.

# Morjim

The VIPs on this beach are the Olive Ridley turtles that come to nest here helped by a group of volunteers who guard the nests and help the hatchlings get into the sea.

A favourite of Russian tourists, along with Ashwem beach close by, visitors will find signboards and menu cards in Russian!

# Palolem

Palolem is a cosy beach of white sand facing a blue bay between two headlands. The little wooded islands on the northern headland look alluring.

you could try and persuade one of the fishermen — this is also a fishing beach — to ferry you across. They also offer to take you out to spot dolphins.

Tourists have of late discovered Palolem and so there are quite a few shacks selling seafood snacks, souvenirs and clothes of the bright, informal kind. Panaji, the capital, is more than 70 kms away.

In recent times, Palolem has become famous for its ‘Silent Noise’ parties.

A unique concept which does away with loud blaring live music after the 10 pm ban. With your own set of earphones, you can dance away to different genres of music played by versatile DJs.

Palolem is just 3 kms away from Canacona Railway station, now on the Konkan Railway route. You can hire taxis and auto-rickshaws to reach Palolem beach from Margao, 40 kms away. There are regular buses from Margao to Palolem that drop you off at Canacona village.

There are now beautiful beach huts and family rooms to choose from in Palolem. Further south is the cove of Colomb where you can enjoy peace and quiet.

Two kilometres away from Palolem is Rajbag Beach which is isolated and stretches all the way to the mouth of the Talpona River. And then on to Galgibaga Beach which is the second nesting site in Goa for turtles. Further south is Agonda Beach.

# Patnem Beach

The Patnem Beach is one of the quietest and most secluded beaches of South Goa. Located in the town of Canacona, this beach is a little slice of Paradise. The beach is known for its peacefulness and beauty as well as the succulent seafood that is available in the area.

Where to Go

Patnem beach is located in the South of Goa, near the more famous Palolem beach. This beach is about 42km away from Colva and 40km away from Margao which is the cultural capital of Goa. The beach is accessible by road.

When to Go

Like the rest of Goa, the best time to visit this beach is in the winter, from October to March, when the cool and pleasant weather and calm seas make perfect weather for swimming and other beach activities. The summer season from March to June is also good weather for swimming even though it is very hot. However as the monsoon approach at the end of May the seas become very rough with dangerous undercurrents until the monsoons are finished in September.

What to Do

There are fewer amusements at Patnem than at the other beaches as the chief charm of this beach is its quiet and solitude. There are a number of ubiquitous Goan beach shacks that line the shore. These shacks made of bamboo and coconut palms are known for their delicious seafood delicacies and authentic Goan cuisine. There are also shops where one can buy souvenirs and trinkets, but there are less of these than there are at other, more popular beaches.

The sea at Patnem is usually safe to swim in, but it is important to follow the instructions of the lifeguards as there can sometimes be dangerous undertows that can take a novice swimmer unaware.

# Sinquerim

With its magnificent 17^th century fort which has now been converted into a prison, Sinquerim is one of the finest beaches in Goa, offering international class facilities for water-skiing, parasailing, fishing, scuba-diving and wind-surfing.

Home to the Taj Hotel Group, which dominates the headland around the historic Fort Aguada.

Sinquerim is located some 13 kms from Panaji. The uninterrupted stretch of firm sand stretches all the way north to Baga, offering visitors a temptingly long walk along the beach.

# Vagator

This most photographed beach of Goa forms a bay that curves from the headland to the hillock crowned by the Chapora Fort.

This beautiful arc of sand is located about 22 kms from Panaji and is part of the 30 km stretch of beach coastline along the west coast of Goa.

Adjoining Anjuna, Vagator is secluded, crescent shaped and situated on the Caisua bay along the Chapora river basin in the shadow of Chapora Fort. During the tourist season, it is a favorite venue for midnight parties.

There are a number of buses that run from Mapusa and Calangute beach to Vagator. The nearest interstate bus station is at Mapusa.

# Varca, Cavelossim and Mobor

Varca, Cavelossim and Mabor are a trio of the most alluring beaches south of Benaulim. These beaches are much cleaner and quieter than most of the other more famous beaches of Goa. There are numerous beach shacks offering a variety of Goan dishes and seafood at reasonable prices.

There are several food joints around the grand ‘Dona Sylvia’ resort offering a splendid repast at reasonable rates. There are also facilities for Dolphin watching up the River Sal.

The beaches here are home to some of the most exclusive and luxurious resorts in Goa. Accommodation is also available for budget and economy class travelers, though not on the beach itself.

There is plenty of transport for these beaches from Margao. From Cavelossim village, Margao is 18 kms away and buses and autos are available easily.

You can also hire taxis from Dabolim Airport (41 – 48 kms) to reach the beach resorts here. To move locally, use cycles and scooters that are available on hire.

# Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary 

The wild life sanctuary named after India’s best ornithologist Dr Salim Moizzudin Abdul Ali, is a popular birding spot. The best time to visit is early morning so carry your binoculars with you. Hidden in the mangrove canopy you may spot a white egret and purple heron, or from high above the watch tower the common colourful kingfishers, eagles, cormorants, kites, woodpeckers, sandpipers, curlews, drongos and mynahs, to name just a few. Sometimes you may even sight marsh crocodiles, foxes, jackals and otters have also been spotted by some visitors, along with the bulbous-headed mudskipper fish. There are boat and canoes that take you around the sanctuary and further in so that you’ll get a chance to see some more.

# Carmbolim Lake, Old Goa 

 This beautiful placid lake is famous amongst birders for it’s avian activity. Go there in the morning when the feathered visitors are at their chirpy peak to witness the marvels of Mother Nature.

Located close to the railway station in Karmali, Old Goa, the large water body attracts a vast species, especially during the migratory period.
At the lake, you’re sure to see cattle egrets, white breasted water hens and northern pintails who visit as part of their winter flight. In fact, the ten most common birds in this area are the Pintal, Lesser Whistling Teal, Cattle Egret, Pond Heron, Purple Moorhen, Red-rumped Swallow, Little Egret, Bronzewinged Jacana, Pheasant Tailed Jacana and the Coot.
The keen observer would also see Shovelers, Garganeys, open-billed Storks, Cotton Pygmy Goose and Marsh Harriers.

# Curtorim Wetlands 

The scenic village of Curtorim located in South Goa is slowly emerging as a birding favourite. The presence of the large water bodies attracts various species of birds all through the year. The charming little hamlet is a must see while you enjoy some avian sights of the White stork, the lesser adjutant stork, brown crake amongst others.

# Beaches

Thousands throng to the beaches every day. But it’s not only the humans who are interested in sunbathing on the golden sands. Don’t be surprised if you’ll be joined by some interesting little guests like the brown-headed Gull, Black-headed Gull & Slender-billed Gull some of the more common birds seen on the shores.

# Bhagwan Mahavir Wild Life Sanctuary 

Goa’s thriving, dense forests are breeding grounds for some rare bird species. If you’re planning a trip the Bhagwan Mahavir Wild Life Sanctuary is a good place to start your birding trip. Located in Mollem, the largest of all sanctuary is known for its sighting a variety of species.

# Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary 

The Cortigao Wilfe Sanctuary is another birding location that is popular for it’s bird species like white-bellied woodpecker, Malabar trogon, to name a few.

# Estuaries

In the flourishing Mandovi and Zuari river estuaries you are bound to spot Sandplovers, Common Sandpipers, Little Stint White-bellied Sea Eagles.

# Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

As the island of Chorao moves closer into view from the ferry (via Ribandar), long stretches of mangroves bordering the island come into view. It is here that diverse species of birds come home to every day. And in this cosy, abode lies the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. It’s small 1.8 sq km sanctuary is open all year round. Apart from the feathered friends you’re bound to spot flying foxes, jackals and crocodiles. The sanctuary is crisscrossed by canals and hence movement is restricted to boats during the high tide. A watch tower provides a birds-eye view of the birds and beautiful vistas around.

# Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Perhaps the largest of the wild life sanctuaries with a total area of 240 sq kms, the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary also contains the Mollem National Park. Located on the eastern border of Goa, about 54 kms away of Panaji and Margao, it can be reached by road and rail. You may not be able to catch the wildlife residents on your first visit, but animals who are sheltered within it’s majestic canopy are Gaur, Sambar, Leopards, Spotted Deer, Slender Tories, Jungle Cats, Malayan Giant Squirrels, Pythons and Cobras. Since it’s set on the foothills of the mighty Western Ghats it’s surrounded by the beautiful nature all around.

# Bondla Wild Life Sanctuary

Bondla has been a favourite picnic spot for years. Every summer and winter hordes of school kids arrive on picnic to enjoy nature and the company of the zoo inhabitants. Located 38 kms from Margao, the sanctuary houses a mini zoo, sprawling deer park in natural habitat, botanical and rose gardens attract people throughout the year.You’ll be able to spot a gaur and the sambar deer along with panther, jungle cat, leopard, toddy cat and more. The diminutive Flying lizard (Draco) is fairly common. Bird watchers enjoy their day out here for the sighting of the state bird (Ruby Throated Yellow Bulbul), the Common Grey Hornbill and Golden Backed Woodpecker who visit daily.

# Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

One of the bigger wild life sanctuaries with a diverse range of flora and interesting wildlife inhabitants that drop by, Cortigao Sanctuary is a must for nature lovers. Located in the Southern most taluka, Canacona, the sanctuary is about 2 kilometers from Poinguinim. The approach road is easy. The thick forest cover, perennial streams and undulating terrain provide a home to many wildlife. It’s rich 86 sq kms area encompasses a mixture of deciduous woodland. Don’t get your hopes too high of sighting a tiger or leopard, but if you’re lucky you could spot a Wild Boar and the odd Gaur. If you’re the adventurous type you can rent a tent and camp out within the sanctuary or stay at the Cortigao sanctuary rooms for let.

# Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

This comparatively new sanctuary area in Goa is located in the Northern Part of the state, near the village of Valpoi. The sanctuary covers a vast area of 208 sq. km. and ensures the protection of the immense biodiversity found in the animal and plant life that resides in the Western Ghats. The formation of this sanctuary makes Goa the only state in the country that protects the entire area of the Western Ghats that falls within the state. This sanctuary is known for the recent spotting of Bengal tigers within its grounds. There is a proposal to make it into a ‘Project Tiger’ tiger reserve. It is in fact one of the best places try and spot tigers in the State.

SOUTH GOA TOUR FORM MARGOA

Tour will cover Big Foot, Shantadurga Temple, Mangeshi Temple, Old Goa Church, Miramar Beach. Tourists will feel the hinterland along with beautiful temples, churches and museums of Goa. Book now for South Goa Tour from Margao/Colva. Tour will be held on all Days. For bookings visit nearest GTDC Residency Contact No : 9764804055. The tour will commence only if minimum 5 passengers are available. In case if the numbers are less than 5, the tour will be cancelled and full amount will be refunded.

Schedules

Timing and Other important information's about the event.

After operating over 1,00,000 jumps since its inception in 2010 in Rishikesh, and earning recognition from the Ministry of tourism, Govt of India for their international safety standards, Jumping Heights, the Bungy People - now bring their magic to Goa! Run by ex-Army officers and with Jump Masters trained extensively under Experts from New Zealand, Jumpin Heights adheres to Australia and New Zealand Standards of Safety for Bungy operations and have revolutionised how safety in adventure sports is perceived in India. This August marks the beginning of the company's second project, and Goa’s first permanent Bungy site- in Mayem Lake, North Goa, a 35 minute drive from the very popular Baga Beach. Jump from a height of 55 mtrs to experience adrenaline like never before.

Disclaimer:

1. Note: Age : 12 to 45 yrs, Weight : 40 kgs to 110 kgs
2. Not suggested for person with health conditions, please check Safety & Security under Overview.
3. Operations closed on Tuesdays.

Criteria

• SOUTH GOA TOUR FROM PANJIM

Schedules

Timing and Other important information's about the event.

NORTH GOA TOUR FROM PANJIM

Tour will cover Coco Beach, Fort Aguada, Mayem lake, Anjuna Beach, Vagator Beach and Calangute Beach. Tourists will feel the hinterland along with beautiful beaches and fort of Goa. Halt for lunch would be made at Mayem Lake. Book now for North Goa Tour from Panjim. Tour will be held on all Days. For bookings visit nearest GTDC Residency Contact No : 9764804055. The tour will commence only if minimum 5 passengers are available. In case if the numbers are less than 5, the tour will be cancelled and full amount will be refunded.  

Schedules

Timing and Other important information's about the event.

NORTH GOA TOUR FORM MARGOA

Tour will cover Mahalasa Temple (Verna), Fish Aquarium, Coco Beach, Fort Aguada, and Calangute Beach. Tourists will feel the hinterland along with beautiful beaches, temples and fort of Goa. Book now for North Goa Tour from Margao. Tour will be held on all Days. For bookings visit nearest GTDC Residency Contact No : 9764804055. The tour will commence only if minimum 5 passengers are available. In case if the numbers are less than 5, the tour will be cancelled and full amount will be refunded.  

Schedules

Timing and Other important information's about the event.

Get ready to be blown away with the rich marine diversity and over 100 species of fish that Goa has to offer as we take you on a magical boat ride with your friends and family on an 8 hour excursion on the sea. Sight delightful dolphins on the way to Grandé Island where you get to scuba dive and snorkel in amazing dive sites like Suzy’s Wreck, Coral Garden, Bounty Bay, Lobsters’ Avenue, and Shelter Cove. 

As Goa Tourism's exclusive Diving Centre, we guarantee you an unforgettable and surreal scuba diving experience. In our 3rd season of operation, we were already on TripAdvisor’s ‘The 10 Best India Scuba and Snorkeling Activities.’ We also have the added distinction of being affiliated with PADI and SSI, two of the world's leading diver training organizations. Our PADI and SSI certified instructors have dived in the waters all around the globe and are there to guide you, entertain you, and keep you safe in the event of any exigency. We have the equipment, the training, and the infrastructure to make your experience memorable while maintaining a stringent safety protocols.

We take special care to make your dive one for the memories and we'll even take high-definition stills and videos so you can share your experience with the world!

• 1. Participants must be 10 years or older to undergo the experience.
• 2. Children between 5-10 can join the boat trip at no additional cost, but for safety reasons, kids under 5 are not permitted on the boat.
• 3. Prior to booking, please download and review the medical form to ensure that you are in good health for the dive.