Churches in Goa

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India's smallest state in terms of area is Goa, a place epitomizing various colors of civilization. Clubbed comfortably between the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka is this beautiful state which is truly a vacationer's paradise. Goa is well known for its exotic beaches, famous churches which are famous for its architecture and its flora and fauna. Tourists from within the country and the world over have always found Goa a perfect holiday destination.

Beaches are naturally the first thing people think when vacation in Goa is planned, but apart from the attraction of beaches Goan Churches also attract a number of tourists worldwide. Goan Churches are renowned for their immaculate form of architecture, which generally depicts a blend of two or more forms of architecture. During the Portuguese regime many churches were built in the Old Goa, and today the old Goa has become a world heritage site owing to the churches here.

Some of the popular churches in Goa are, the Se Cathedral, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of S.Caetano, etc.

The Se Cathedral is well known Goan Church: Dedicated to the Catherine of Alexandria, this beautiful cathedral is situated in Old Goa. It is one of the largest churches in Asia and is the seat of the Patriarch of the East Indies. Famous as the Latin Rite Catholic Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, the cathedral is one of the oldest and most celebrated religious edifices in Goa. Built in 1619, the cathedral has a Portuguese-Manueline style of architecture.

Church of St. Francis of Assisi is one of the best churches of Goa: Very close to the Se Cathedral is the Church of St. Francis Assisi which currently houses the Archaeological Museum. It has the main entrance built in Manueline style whereas otherwise the exteriors of the church are in Tuscan order. The church was built in the year 1661. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is an immensely popular Goan church: The place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the basilica here still holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Carpeted with beautiful marble flooring this is one of the oldest church in Goa. The church was built in 1605, and till date it attracts huge number of visitors from all over the world mainly to see the remains of Francis Xavier which is kept in a silver casket. The body is kept for public viewing every 10 years during the anniversary of the Saint's death.

Apart from the churches mentioned above there are a number of other churches, religious places, and other places of interest also which attract the tourists round the year. Goa is a place where people usually go to relax and rejuvenate. So plan a vacation to this exotic place and explore your interest here, whether it is for ancient architecture or for enticing beaches.