Basilica of Bom Jesus - Goa - India

The Basilica of Bom Jesus comes across as an imposing brick structure that holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, one of the founders of the Society of Jesus. Located in Old Goa, the former capital of Goa, the basilica is considered to be one of the best examples of baroque architecture in India. Construction on the church started in 1594 and was sanctified in 1605, making the Basilica of Bom Jesus one of the major religious sites for Christianity. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an important landmark in the country.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus (1594-1605) in Old Goa, 6 miles east of the Goa’s capital Panjim, occupies a very special place in the consciousness of the Goan Catholic community.

The construction of this church was started way back on 24th November 1594 and  was completed on 15th May 1605. The church was consecrated by Fr. Alexio de Menezes , the then Archbishop of Goa. 

Inside the basilica, a wooden ceiling looks down upon all the believers and as is typical of most European churches, it is quite high. The interiors are gilded with gold and the huge white arch is also remarkable. One can almost imagine the number of hours put in by each mason in order to create such lovely sculptures and figurines.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is the most famous of all the church  in Old Goa. It contains the relics of St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa. It was the first church in India to be elevated to the status of a minor basilica in 1946. There is also an art gallery towards the exit of the Basilica of Bom Jesus.  

The design of Basilica De Bom Jesus is a fine specimen of Jesuit architecture and was inspired by the church of St. Paul, which is now in ruins. The three-storeyed facade of Basilica De Bom Jesus , delicately carved  with basalt embellishments is one of the richest in Goa. At the top of the facade you can see an intricately carved basalt medallion which depicts the emblem of the society of Jesus. 

The columns depict the fine use of classical orders, in the Renaissance style .As you move to the interior of the church , just above the entrance you will notice a choir supported by columns. One is sure to be mesmerized by the Mosaic Corinthian style interiors of the church. The grand marble floor is adorned with precious stones.  

The church houses two chapels, a main altar, a sacristy and a belfry at the back. Apart from these, the church also has a rich collection of paintings related to various instances from the life of St. Francis Xavier. Altars dedicated to St. Michael and to Our Lady of Hope are also present .

You will find a huge throng of tourists from all over the world visiting Goa during the Feast of St Francis Xavier. It is held annually on the 3rd of December, with much light-hearted festivity going hand in hand with the more solemn masses. The body of St Francis Xavier is exhibited to the public every ten years, during which it is taken all around Old Goa so everyone can catch a glimpse of the revered Saint. Since a huge number of visitors are expected in Goa during the feast, hotels in Goa are almost always booked to the limit. So, if you plan to visit Goa in December, make sure you have made your reservations in a Goa hotel.

The church houses the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier, patron saint of Goa. St Francis Xavier is also known as "Goencho Saib" meaning "Lord of Goa". The saint died while on a sea voyage to China on December 2,1552. In accordance with his wishes , his remains were transferred to Goa the following year.  

Various ceremonies are hosted in order to honor the Saint's death. The gardens and wide open spaces that are usually deserted otherwise , are flocked with thousands of people on this occasion. So the next time your in Goa do not miss the opportunity to visit this place!  

The church is a worthwhile exploration. The church is not merely a destination but an experience. This Portuguese piece of architecture is counted among the UNESCO world heritage sites and mesmerizes all its visitors. 

How to Reach

Air :The nearest airport at Dabolim (30 km from Panaji) has frequent flights from Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Bangalore and Kochi, besides chartered flights from overseas.

Rail : The two railway stations- at Vasco da Gama and Margao- also have a number of trains arriving at Goa from the rest of the country.

Bus: There are frequent bus connections to Old Goa from Panaji and other places in Goa.

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