Goa, located on the western coast of India, is popular all over the world for its picturesque beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historical landmarks. The state’s rich cultural heritage is clearly demonstrated through different structural landmarks like churches, which were built during the Portuguese colonial period. The famous churches in Goa are not only significant religious sites but are also important cultural and historical landmarks. If the colorful and verdant beaches stimulate the wanderlust within you, the churches will let you admire the ancient Portuguese existence, the charming culture, and the unique architecture.
List of 9 Best churches in Goa
Have a look at these Top 9 famous churches in Goa and make sure that they feature in your Goa honeymoon trip.
- Basilica of Bom Jesus
- Se Cathedral
- Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
- St. Cajetan Church
- Church of St. Francis of Assisi
- Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount
- Church of St. Augustine
- Santa Cruz Church
- St Alex Church
1. Basilica of Bom Jesus
Address: Old Goa church, Rd, Bainguinim, Goa
Built in: 1605
Timings: Sunday Mornings – 8 AM to 9:15 AM (English) | Evening – 6 PM (Konkani) | Weekday Mornings – 7 AM to 8 AM
Ways to reach: Bus, taxis, autos, public transportation
The Basilica of Bom Jesus, situated in Old Goa, is among the most famous churches not only in Goa but in India as well. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in India. The church was constructed in 1605 and is dedicated to Jesus Christ. The church houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa. The body of St. Francis Xavier is kept in a silver casket, which is displayed to the public every ten years.
2. Se Cathedral
Address: Velha, Goa
Built in: 1640
Mass timings: Sunday – 10 AM- 4 PM; 7:30 AM – 6 PM(Weekday)
Ways to reach: Bus, taxis, autos, public transportation
The Se Cathedral, located in Old Goa, is one of the largest churches in Asia and the Top 9 famous churches in Goa. It was built in the 16th century and is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. The church is a real example of Portuguese-Manueline architecture and the bell tower here stands tall at a height of 250 feet. The church also houses the famous Golden Bell, which is one of the largest bells in Asia. Moreover, the church is surrounded by some of the best shopping places in Goa.
3. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
Address: Ella, Goa
Built in: 1510
Visiting timings: 9 AM – 7 PM (Weekdays); 9 AM – 12 PM (Sundays)
Ways to reach: Bus, taxis, autos, public transportation
The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is among the top list of churches of Goa and the most famous attraction here. The church which was constructed in the 16th century is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of Mary. The church has unique architecture, the perfect blend of Baroque and Portuguese styles. The church is also famous for its bell tower, which has a giant bell and was originally installed in the Augustinian Monastery in Old Goa.
4. St. Cajetan Church
Address: Velha, Goa
Built in: 1661
Visiting timings: 7 AM – 12 noon; 4 – 7 PM (evening)
Ways to reach: Bus, taxis, and autos
The St. Cajetan Church, located in Old Goa, was built in the 17th century and is dedicated to St. Cajetan. The church is built in the Corinthian style and has a dome that is reminiscent of the St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The church is famous for its beautiful frescoes showcasing the life of St. Cajetan. Due to its Corinthian Architecture and Baroque-style carvings, the church is admired by admirers from all around the world.
5. Church of St. Francis of Assisi
location: Off National Highway 4, Goa
Built in: 1661
Visiting timings: Weekdays – 5 PM (English); Sunday – 9 AM & 11 AM (English); 5 PM (Konkani)
Ways to reach: Bus, taxis, and autos
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, located in Old Goa, was constructed in the 17th century. It is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi and has been built in the Baroque style. The beautiful façade which is adorned with statues of St. Francis and other saints is the key attraction here. The church also houses a museum that showcases artifacts from the Portuguese colonial period.
6. Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount
Location: Ella, Goa
Year of establishment: 1510
timings: Weekdays – 9 AM – 7 PM; Sundays – 9 AM – 12 PM
Ways to reach: Bus, taxis, autos, public transportation
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, located in the village of Santa Cruz, is one of the most picturesque churches in Goa and among the top list of churches of Goa. The church was built in the 16th century and is dedicated to Our Lady of the Mount. The church is situated on a hilltop and presents the amazing views of the nearby places. The church is also famous for its annual feast, which is celebrated in September.
7. Church of St. Augustine
Address: Church of St. Augustine Ruins, Goa Velha, Goa 403402
Year of establishment: 1602
Mass timings: NA
Ways of reaching: Bus, taxis, autos, public transportation
The Church of St. Augustine, located in Old Goa, was built in the 16th century and is dedicated to St. Augustine. The church was once a grand structure, but today only the ruins remain. The church’s bell tower, which is four stories high, is the only surviving part of the structure. The church’s ruins are a popular tourist attraction and are a testament to Goa’s rich cultural heritage.
8. Santa Cruz Church
Address: Santa Cruz, Goa
Built in: 1547
Mass timings: Weekdays – 6:30 – 7:15 AM; Sundays – 6:30 AM, 7:15 AM, 9 AM, 10 AM, & 5:30 PM
Ways to reach: Bus, taxis, autos, public transportation
Beginning as a small place of worship, the Santa Cruz Church later developed into what today is known as- the largest parish in Goa. Since the church has been constructed in the Neo-Roman style, one can see the perfect led of Indian and European culture revealing the glorious past of Goa.
9. St Alex Church
Location: Bardez Taluka, Calangute, Goa
Year of establishment: 1576
How to reach: Auto, taxis, etc
The magnificent dome in the center of two towers, the St. Alex Church is known for its unique architecture all over the world. The church is dedicated to St. Alex and Our Lady and has an ornate grotto and seven altars adding a unique feature to it.
Conclusion
These are among the Top 9 famous churches in Goa. All of these churches have their own unique history and charm, and visiting them is a great way to learn more about the rich culture and heritage of the state. If you also want to explore these old Goa churches then book customized and budget-friendly Goa tour packages with Honeymoon Bug.
FAQs About Famous Goa Churches
What is the ideal time to visit Goa?
The ideal time to visit Goa is from mid-November to February. However, the weather in Goa remains pleasurable throughout the year and thus the place is visited by enormous visitors throughout the year.
Which are the main festivals in Goa?
Some of the main festivals celebrated in Goa include Shigmo, the Three Kings Feast, Sao Joao Festival, St. Xavier’s Feast, Christmas, the Bonderam Festival, etc.
Do I need to follow a particular dress code while visiting churches in Goa?
Yes, one must choose decent clothes while visiting a religious place. don’t hurt the cultural sentiments of people while on spiritual trips.
Name the most famous church among the Top 10 famous churches in Goa.
The most popular church in Goa is the Basilica of Bom Jesus. The church is a designated UNESCO world heritage site and is known all over the world to host the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Bom Jesus is a popular pilgrim spot among the Christians across the country.
