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Churches in Goa

Churches in Goa

The churches in Goa are some of the popular tourist destinations. Some of them are mentioned here:

Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assisi

The woodcarving and paintwork add grandeur to the grand structure of this church. Different phases of St. Francis' life are depicted here by inlay works on the church floor. The convent of this church has been restored as the Archaeological Museum.

The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary

Indian elements and European elements are blended in the construction of this church. The fresco paintings of the church walls reflect Hindu designs while Portuguese architecture is also evident in the church premise. The fresco paintings on the alabaster tomb reveal the Islamic style.

Royal Chapel of St. Anthony

This chapel was constructed during 17th century. The church is built in the memory of St. Anthony, the national saint of Portugal. In 1835 this chapel was closed down but later in 1894, its renovation work started. With initiatives from government of Portugal, this church was re-inaugurated in 1961.

Convent and the Church of the Cross of Miracle

This church is built in a hilly region, in the outskirts of Goa. From the top of the hill a magnificent view of the surrounding region can be enjoyed. The church and its convent are almost ruins. The architecture of the church reflects the style of Medieval Europe.

Se Cathedral

This cathedral was built during the era of Dominicans in Goa. This missionary group was sent to India by the Portuguese naval general Alfonso de Albuquerque. The Se Cathedral is one of the popular tourist attractions in Goa. The architecture of this church is unique and worth seeing.

Chapel of St. Catherine

This church was constructed in 16th century. It has been built in the same spot where Albuquerque once constructed a chapel to celebrate his victory over Goa. Since his victory coincided with the St. Cathrine's Day, he named the chapel after her. This chapel was upgraded to a cathedral by Pope Paul II in 1534.

Temples in Goa

Temples in Goa

Tourists in Goa can also visit the beautiful temples. Some of the popular temples in Goa are discussed here:

Devaki Krishna Temple

This Hindu temple draws many devotees and tourists in Goa. From Panaji, this temple is located at a distance of 17 km, in Marcel. The shrine is dedicated to Devakikrishna. The deity of the temple is a black stone statue of Devaki and her son Lord Krishna. Here Lord Krishna is depicted as a child. In this temple the festival of Malini Purnima is celebrated.

Shri Ananta Temple

This popular religious shrine is located at Sovoi Verem. The ambiance of this temple is serene and many devotees regularly visit this place. It is also a popular tourist spot of Goa. The idol of Anant Sheshashayi, Lord Vishnu's serpent is placed in this temple. The idol of Shri Ananta Temple is made from black stone. Many festivals are celebrated in this temple premise.

Shri Chandreshwar Temple

This temple is built on the Chandranath Hill. It was built in 17th century, during the rule of the Bhoj kings. One has to climb a number of granite steps to reach this temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Chandreshwar or the God of Moon. A Shiva linga is placed in this temple and a number of devotees of Lord Shiva comes to worship him everyday. During the celebration of Maha Shiva Ratri, this temple is crowded with devotees.

Shri Mangesh Temple

The temple was originally built in Kushasthali village. But after the Portuguese rulers took over the supremacy of the land, the Mangesh Linga was taken to the Mangeshi village. The Portuguese rulers destroyed the temple of Kushasthali village in 1567. Shri Mangesh is considered to be a personification of Lord Shiva. An idol of Nandi – the holy Bull of Lord Shiva is placed in this temple.

Shopping in Goa

A travel to the state of Goa is never complete without shopping. One can strike a good deal by bargaining with the local shopkeepers. Tourists collect different souvenirs from Goa. One can collect the popular souvenir items like handicrafts, decorative objects made from shell, brass, terracotta, paper mache and bamboo. Cashew nuts are also bought by the tourists in Goa. There are a number of government emporiums in Goa where travelers can drop in for shopping. The special market held on Wednesday at the Anjuna Beach and the Friday market at Mapusa should not be missed.