Basilica of Bom Jesus

Basilica of Bom Jesus is located at Nine kilometers from Panaji, standing witness to a milestone event in the history of Christianity, is the world famous church of Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus.

It was the first church in India to be raised to the status of a minor Basilica in 1946. Construction work began in 1594 and the church was consecratedon 15th of May,1605 by the Archbishop, Dom Fr. Aleixo de Menezes. Dedicated to infant Jesus, this church is most revered among the Goans. The mortal remains of Goa's patron St. Francis Xavier are kept here. Referred fondly as 'Goencho Saib' (Lord of Goa) by Goans, emotions of Goans run high when it comes to St. Francis Xavier. St. Francis was a member of society of Jesus who came to Goa in a 1542. Although his stay in Goa was short, just four months, but he kept coming back time and again since Goa housed the headquarters of Society of Jesuits in the East. He died enroute to China on December 3,1552. Though he was buried there, his body was brought back to Goa after two years in accordance with his wish. It was then discovered that the body was still intact. The body at that time was laid in St. Paul's church but after St. Francis Xavier was Canonized in 1662, it was shifted to Basilica of Bom Jesus where it remains till date. Public viewing is held every ten years. This event attracts lakhs of pilgrims from round the globe.

Declared a world heritage site, Basilica of Bom Jesus stands as a fine example of Jesuit architecture. The design was inspired from St. Paul church but that church stands in ruins now. In the same compound built by Jesuits, was their Professed house. The Professed house, a double storeyed structure is made of laterite and lime plastered. Facing west, this triple storeyed structure stands 75 3/5 feet wide and 78 ½ feet tall. The facade of Basilica of Bom Jesus is a visual delight flaunting a combination of Ionic, Doric and Corinthian styles in the columns. The ground floor has three portals, above them are three corresponding long windows and on the second floor are three circular windows. While the beautification is true Baroque style complete with curves and embellishments, the facade is adorned by pillars and carvings. But the layout is simplistic with a single nave inspired by Renaissance style. The top most part of the facade forming a quadrangle is carved in basalt to form a medallion illustrating the emblem of Society of Jesus.

Attached to the church is a modern art gallery, the Bom Jesus Church art gallery. It's the first and largest art gallery in Asia. A buttress wall on the northern side is a recent addition to the structure. Basilica also organizes a sound and light show based on the life of Christ, St. Francis Xavier and Blessed Joseph Vaz and the feast is held every year on December 3. The basilica is open from 6 am to 6:30 pm. everyday

Inside Basilica of Bom Jesus

Crucified in form, interiors of the Basilica are Mosaic Corinthian style, but the Renaissance inspired simplicity is remarkable. One of the richest churches in Goa, the floor of the church is made of grand marble and inlaid with precious stones. The roof of the church was originally tiled. There is a choir above the entrance supported by columns. These columns hold slabs which inform in Portuguese and Latin that 'the construction of this church of Jesus began on November 24, 1594 and Fr. Alexia de Menezes, the Archbishop of Goa and Primate of India consecrated it on 15 May 1605, when it was completed.' Also within the domicile are a main altar, a sacristy, a belfry at the back and two chapels, at the either ends of the transept. Running 182 4\5 feet long and 55 ½ feet broad, on each side are three rows of windows, one above the other. A projecting gallery in the second row supported by columns meant for dignitaries runs on the sides. At the end of the nave is main altar rich with gilded work in gold dedicated to infant Jesus. It has a statue of infant Jesus under the protection of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the society of Jesus, his eyes on the medallion of Jesuits. Above the medallion are depicted the holy trinity- the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost.

On the either side of the main altar in the transept are the other two altars dedicated to Our Lady of Hope and St. Michael. All the altars are rich with guild work and Baroque in style. In the north of the transept is the chapel of the blessed sacrament or the Mausoleum of St. Francis Xavier. This chapel where St. Francis Xavier lies in a silver casket is lavishly decorated with wooden carvings and paintings depicting scenes from the life of the saint. The tomb of St. Francis made of rich marble of different colours took ten years to complete. A present to the church from the last Medici, the duke of Tuscany, Cosimi III, this tomb was designed by famous Florentine sculptor Giovanni Batista Foggini. In the centre of the nave of the church is the cenotaph, embellished with bronze guild, of the benefactor of the church Dom Jeronimus Mascarenhas, Captain of Cochin and Ormuz. An extensively carved wooden pulpit with a canopy is projecting from the southern wall. The pulpit is carved on its three sides with images of Jesus, four evangelists and four doctors of the church.

The church also has a rich collection of paintings relating to the life of St. Francis Xavier. On the Southern wall of the church are displayed paintings (Italian school) depicting various instances from the life of St. Francis Xavier.

Inside the Basilica of Bom Jesus Art Gallery

This modern art gallery is one of the largest and one of its kind in Asia. The gallery houses paintings of Italian art. The gallery has 36 oil paintings made between 1973 and 1976. The artist was paid only for the material used, his creativity being a gratis for the church, thus was commissioned by Fr. George D'Sa. The largest two are 'The Last Judgement' (6ft x 9ft) and 'Genesis' (4ft x 28ft).

Goa Churches

Goa is literally synonymous with churches. They are living testimonies of the rich historical past of Goa. During the early days of the Portuguese rule in India, church building was the primary concern and occupation in Goa. This was because of their zeal to spread Christianity and convert as many people as they can. The Goan churches still have that old world charm and are very popular with the tourists who visit India. The church in Goa had much importance in the social life of the people there. It helped in the spread of education, built hospitals and helped people in their day to day troubles of life. Check out our related sections about the famous churches of Goa.


Basilica of Bom Jesus

One of the most popular churches in Goa, the Basilica of Bom Jesus truly deserves to be given the status of a World Heritage Site. It is located in Old Goa which was the capital city during the Portugal rule. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is famous for the preserved mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.


Mary Immaculate Conception

The Church of Mary Immaculate Conception is one of the most famous landmarks of Goa. This church is supposed to be one of the earliest churches to be constructed in Goa. Tourists come to the Mary Immaculate Conception Church of India to feel blessed and to marvel at the magnitude of its construction.


Reis Magos Church

The Reis Magos church of Goa is one of the most famous landmarks of the Reis Magos village located in Goa. This famous church is visible from across the River Mandovi as a white monument that is stunningly beautiful to look at. The church is located on the road that passes the famous Calangute and Candolim beaches.


Se Cathedral

The Se Cathedral of Goa is located in old Goa, and is around 9 kilometers from the capital city Panaji. The Se Cathedral of Goa is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. This magnificent edifice was built in the 16th century under the Portuguese rule in India.


St. Anne Church

The church of St. Anne of Goa is noted for its remarkable architecture in India. The present day church was reconstructed by Mons Francisco do Rego with his own money. Due to some unforeseen circumstances, he could not complete the construction and Father Antonio Francisco Da Cunha was bestowed with the responsibility of completing the construction of the church.


Church of St. Augustine

The ruins of St. Augustine church is a very popular tourist attraction and one of the most spectacular monuments in Goa. The church was built in 1602 with the combined efforts of 12 Augustinians. They also built a convent besides the church.


St. Cajetan Church

The St. Cajetan church is located in Old Goa near the Se cathedral church. The church is visited by numerous tourists because of exquisite architecture. This vast and strikingly beautiful church has been constructed on the primary design of the Basilica of St. Peter located in Rome. spread


Church of St. Francis

A stunning and charming building, the Church of St. Francis of Assisi is located in Old Goa at a distance of some 10 kilometers from the capital city, Panaji. The Church of St. Francis of Assisi is at the same complex in which Se Cathedral is located. The Church of St. Francis of Assisi of Goa was built during 1517-1521 AD.


St. Paul Church

The St. Paul Church is a ruined church that is a popular tourist attraction in Goa. It is located on the road that one takes from Old Goa to reach Ponda. One can always hire local transport to reach this lovely church. The church of St. Paul in Goa was set up because of the efforts of two priests namely Diogo de Borba and Miguel Vaz

Wildlife in Goa

Goa, a land of surprises does not disappoint anyone. Blessed by Mother Nature, its rich flora and fauna is a major tourist attraction. A break from the beaches and parties in the sanctuaries amidst the flora and fauna is a pleasant change. The beautiful jungles are well preserved by the environment concerned people and government. A trip along the Western Ghats will lay bare in front of you the secrets that Goa preserves within its thick green carpet.

Twenty percent of Goa is covered by wildlife protected areas, digging a little deep into the jungles or by estuaries will only reveal more. Not to forget the birds, Goa is a favourite of the wide species of birds and many avid bird watchers throng the river sides and jungles to catch glimpses.

So So it's not just the 'wild' parties but a rich wildlife that waits you in Goa. Whenever you feel like coming close to nature, just visit one of the wildlife sanctuaries. But if you are seriously interested in wildlife and it is not just a change you are seeking from the beaches, then patience is the key word for you. Take an accommodation in or around a sanctuary in nature's bounty and feel the communion with the nature.


Bhagwan Mahavir Bird sanctuary and Mollem National Park

Close to the eastern border of Goa near Karnataka, within the foothills of Western Ghats near the Molem village is Bhagwan Mahavir sanctuary. In its heart lies the Mollem National Park (107sq km), together they reign on a green belt of 240sq km. Sixty kilometers away from the state capital Panjim, its evergreen forests and deciduous trees are a visual treat.

The setting is perfect for a habitat of animals; some of the more common animals here are Deers and Guars, Malayan Giant Squirrels, Cobras and Pythons. You might even spot Sloth Beer, Flying Lizard, Leopard Cat, Elephants and Tigers but you have to be lucky enough for that and also have time and patience to keep your eyes hooked all the time.

You can climb up the watchtowers near the waterholes to get a good view of the animals who come to drink water. Do not to miss the birds. Some of the common birds in this area of the jungle are the Great Indian Black Woodpecker, Malabar Pied Hornbill and Paradise Flycatcher. To end the day perfectly visits the sunset point to treat your self to a golden Goan sunset.

Visit early morning or late evening for best results! The forest department organises jeep rides within the forest and while you are here don't forget the Dudhasagar Falls and the twelfth century Mahadev Temple


Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

A visit to Bondla wildlife sanctuary is more perfect for a family holiday rather than a serious wildlife expedition. Covering an area of 80 sq km Bondla sanctuary is rich with flora and fauna. However, with its mini zoo, elephant rides, deer park, botanical and rose gardens the sanctuary, it is a children's delight as well. Goans and tourists are present here all year through. In the foothills of Western ghats, its nature lovers' heaven. Comparatively small but it's the only sanctuary that has proper accommodation facilities, you have a choice between cottages and dorm.

Trail along the nature in Bondla into a world of unfettered beauty, there are good chances that you might spot a wild boar or sambar. There is also a Nature exhibition centre where you can check the exhibits.


Cotigao wildlife sanctuary

Spread within an area of 86.65 sq km and sixty kilometers from Panjim is Cotigao wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary has thick deciduous forest and trees as long as thirty metres high. The forest is not exactly as raw as other sanctuaries since there are dwellings around. Though it gets a fair number of visitors but it is not as developed for tourism as others are. You can spot here Wild Boars, Langur, Deer, Bison, Pangolin and Black Panther. To get better luck with spotting wild animals, mount a watchtower near the waterhole. The sanctuary has a lake also, Bela lake and a Nature Interpretation Centre which has botanical and faunal exhibits.


Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Situated on the western tip of Chorao Island, the sanctuary is small, just 1.78 sq km but it has much for bird watchers. Perfect for a picnic, one has to take a ferry to reach here. The mangroves here are filled with birds, enough to keep you hooked. 14 species of mangroves are here providing an ideal breeding ground for Planktons, Shrimps, tiny Crabs and small estuarine fish and they provide feeding ground for birds as well.

Migratory birds can be seen here from November to February; these include Pintail Ducks, Cormorants, Storks, Purplke Moorhen and Mallards.