Church of St. Francis of Assisi,Goa,India

The Church of St. Francis of Assisi which lies to the west of Se Cathedral and shares more or less similar external architectural pattern. This church was built in 1661. At present date, the convent of this church has been modified to an Archaeological Museum.

He was someone who threw away a life of luxury to embrace poverty. How he rose above it all, attained the kingdom of God, and became a saint, is a long story. But, standing inside the church named for him, I realize that the church seems to have seen just as many highs and lows as him and survived to tell the tale.

The Church of Francis of Assisi is right opposite the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and most of the tourists come here to see the archaeological museum maintained by the ASI in the convent which adjoins this church. Few enter the church itself, probably because it is just one of the many churches here. But that only makes it a better experience for me  the church is almost empty, and I can enjoy it in peace

Se Cathedral is the largest church in Goa, India and reportedly all Asia.  The original building was constructed of mud and stones and straw and was erected in 1510 and was dedicated to St. Catherine for it was on St. Catherine's day -Nov 25th that Alfonso de Albuquerque conquered Goa. It underwent modifications subsequently and a second church was constructed in 1515. The building does not seem very imposing in its outward appearance. But the interior of the Cathedral is majestic and it has a high vaulted ceiling.

The three tier facade of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi has octagonal tower on each side and in the central niche there is a statue of St. Michael.The main entrance of this church is beautifully decorated with circular pilasters and rosette bands. The internal buttress walls separating the chapels and supporting the gallery on top have frescoes exhibiting floral designs

The origin of this church can be traced to arrival of Franciscan friars in 1517, secured the rights over few houses from the Governor which belonged to the deceased Thanedar. They constructed a small Chapel in the premises.  This Church was dedicated to the Holy Ghost and consecrated in 1521.  The present church was built on the same spot after pulling down the old Chapel in 1661 retaining the old entrance of the earlier Church. 

Noticing the intricate details on the frescoes, it is easy to understand why this is one of the churches under the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Each of these churches have their own USPs. For this one, it is the frescoes and the paintings which draw eyes and awe.

How to reach
AIR
Dabolim airport of Goa is well connected by flight with major cities in India.
RAIL
Madgaon, Vasco-da-Gama, Tivim and Karmali railway stations of Goa are well connected by trains with major cities and places in India.
ROAD
Panaji, Mapusa, Margao, and other main cities of Goa are well connected by motor able roads with different cities and places in India.

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