The Churches in Goa are one of Goa's most important institutions.
Legacies of Portuguese colonization, some of Goa’s most famous
and magnificent buildings and structures are these churches. Christianity
was imposed upon the Goans by the Portuguese during the period of
the ‘Inquisition’. Temples were demolished randomly
and this continued until 1812. Most of the Churches yhat now exist
in Goa were built over the ruins of the demolished temples. Lands
were confiscated from the temples and were handed over to the churches
and the ‘communidades’. The churches in Goa reflect
European architectural styles in a big way as most of the churches
in Goa were built during the Portuguese rule. The importance of
these Churches are not just religious or historical, but also architectural.
»Se Cathedral Church
The
Se Cathedral church of Goa is one of the largest churches of Asia.
Built by the Portuguese, its grandeur and magnificence depicts the
glory of Portuguese rule. Built in the 16 th century its architecture
shows traces of Gothic and Portuguese influences. Dedicated to St
Catherine of Alexandria, the church has exquisite paintings that
reveal the stories of her life. The famous Golden Bell of Goa is
located in this Church.
»Basilica
of Bom Jesus
One
of the most world renowned church, it contains the body St. Francis
Xavier. Located in Old Goa this church is rich in ornamentation.
It is believed that Francis Xavier's remains which are preserved
in this church is still fresh today. Devotees from different parts
of the world come to this church to offer their prayers. The body
is kept for public viewing after every ten years. The Last exposition
was in 2004.
»Reis
Magos Church
Located
on the banks of Mandovi River, the Reis Magos Church was built in
the year 1555. The church is renowned for the festival of Three
Wise Men which is held here. Every year in January, the place comes
alive with festivities and vibrant Goan people celebrate the journey
of the Three Kings of Magi.
»Ruins
of Church of St. Augustine
Located
in the Holy Hill of Goa, the ruin of St Augustine Church is a towering
structure. Built in the year 1602, the 46 m high tower is the only
remnant of the huge church. The convent though was used for charitable
work, but with time all that remains is the facade of the structure
and the tower.
»The Church of St. Anne at Talaulim. Ilhas
Also
known as St. Anne, the church is truly an architectural marvel in
Goa. There are several stories related to the making of this church.
Every year on 26 th July festivals are celebrated all across Goa,
known as Touceachem Fest or Cucumber Fest related with this church
where people of Goa beseech the saint. A combination of Indian and
Western architecture, St Anne's Church is one of the beautiful churches
of Goa.
