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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