12 Historic Churches in Goa (You Must Visit in 2022)
Goa’s famous churches were built around the 15th century AD, during the Portuguese rule in Goa. That’s why you can see most of the innovation and creativity in 15th century architecture, and all the skilled work done by Indian workers. Not only can you see the architecture, but you can also learn many unknown facts about Goan customs and traditions. You will also learn all the historical stories of Portuguese rule.
Goa’s churches and monasteries were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.
List of the most beautiful churches in Goa:
Here are some of the best and most famous churches you should visit in Goa,
1. Bon Jesus Cathedral, C:
The Basilica of Jesuit Church in Goa is one of the most famous and often visited historical churches in Goa. The name of the famous church in Goa is mainly due to the Jesuits who came to India in the 15th century. It is also one of the oldest churches built in 1594. Along with the remains of St. Francis Xavier, you can easily find a fine and extensive gem work at St. Francis Church Goa. There are also some important paintings, so this church will surprise anyone who visits it. St Xavier Church Goa opened in 1605. Bom Jesus Church Goa hours vary on weekdays and weekends.
- Church Day: Monday to Saturday, Sunday
- time: Weekdays 7-8 AM and 6 PM, Sunday 8-9.15 AM and 6 PM
- Place: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa
- how can I get there: Via Road using a bus or car
- Celebrations: Christmas and the Feast of Saint Xavier
- Other attractions: Body of St. Francis Xavier
2. Se Cathedral, Velha, Goa:
Se Cathedral in Goa is impressive for its unique structure. It is one of the largest monasteries and churches in Goa. These beautiful churches in Goa were built in the 16th century when the Portuguese celebrated their victory over the Indians and took Goa. So this St Francis Xavier Church in Goa is dedicated to St Catherine. The church seen in Goa is the house of the great Admiralty, also blessed by the Pope, mainly in the form of golden roses. That’s why this place has a wonderful spiritual aura. The Three Kings Banquet is also celebrated here. St Francis Church Goa was established in 1640.
- Church Day: Monday to Saturday, Sunday
- time: Weekdays 7.30am to 6pm, Sunday 7.30am, 10am and 4pm
- Place: Velia, Goa
- how can I get there: Road using car, bus or train mode
- Celebrations: Christmas and the Feast of the Three Kings
[See Also: Main Festivals Celebrated in Goa]
3. Church of St. Francis of Assisi, State Road 4, Velha Goa:
The Church of St. Francis was founded mainly by the great and famous Franciscan monks. The best churches in Goa are the perfect mix of Corinthian, Tuscan and Baroque architectural styles. This makes the church look different from other churches in Goa. The best church in Goa is not only a monastery but also a museum, which displays various types of paintings, artifacts, sculptures and can also help you understand Goa’s past. You will also learn about the culture of Goa’s past. San Francisco Church of Goa was founded in 1661.
- Church Day: Monday to Saturday, Sunday
- time: Weekdays 5pm, 9am-11am, Sunday 5pm
- Place: National Highway 4, Velha Goa
- how can I get there: Using a car or bus via NH4
- Celebrations: Christmas
4. Church of Our Lady of Mount Ella, Goa:
This old Goa church is located in Monte, so it is also one of the oldest and most famous churches in Goa. The church is located next to the Se Cathedral, so the church has the best view of the river Mandovi. You can also get a glimpse of the Chora Islands and places in Old Goa. The presence of the surrounding mountains gives the place a calming feel. The name of this Goan church is also featured in many Bollywood movies. The church was built in 1510. Church visits to Goa are on weekdays and weekends.
- Church Day: Monday to Saturday, Sunday
- time: Weekdays 9am-7am, Sundays 9am-12pm
- Place: Ella, Goa
- how can I get there: with the help of a car, bus or train
- Celebrations: Christmas
- Other attractions: Chorao Islands, Old Goa, Mandovi River.
5. St. Kajetan Church, Velha, Goa:
This most famous Goa church was built and imitated on the basis of St. Peter’s Basilica. St. Peter’s Basilica is located in Vatican City. Without a doubt, St Kajetan’s Church is one of the most beautiful churches in South Goa. Goa’s must-see churches have the advantage of both Baroque and Corinthian architecture. This is one of the few churches in Goa that greatly depicts the culture of the Portuguese-era rulers, so it attracts thousands of tourists every year. The church was founded in 1661. Church hours in Goa are open all day.
- Church Day: monday sunday
- time: 7am to 12pm and 4pm to 7pm
- Place: Ella, Goa
- how can I get there: By using trains, buses and cars
- Celebrations: Christmas, Bondram Festival
6. Mae De Deus Church, Chogm Rd, Saligao, Goa:
The history of Mae De Deus Goa Church is one of the unique churches in Goa. This place has perfect architecture, design and structure. This is one of the fewest churches in Goa built in the Neo-Gothic style. The Mae De Deus statue is intricately carved with fantastic gliding and decorative effects. This photo of a church in Goa is a show stopper at night so more people visit the place at night to see the star show. The church was established in 1873.
- Church Day: Monday to Saturday, Sunday
- time: Weekdays 7 AM and 8 AM, Sunday 7 AM and 8.30 AM and 9.30 PM
- Place: Chogm Rd, Saligo, Goa
- how can I get there: By using a bus or a car or a car.
- Celebrations: Christmas
- Other attractions: Statue of Mae De Deus.
7. Church of the Immaculate Conception, Rua Emidio Garcia, Panjim, Goa:
Goa’s top churches have unique architecture, that’s undeniable. This is what makes Goa’s main church an ancient gem among all other churches in Goa. Goans mainly come here to experience the power of God. The famous church in Goa, with two zigzag staircases, is also located on the hillside. The Panjim Church in Goa is the second largest church in Goa. Goa Church was built in 1609. You can always visit these Goa Church images.
- Church Day: monday sunday
- time: 7am to 5.30pm
- Place: Rua Emidio Garcia, Panjim, Goa
- how can I get there: Help by train or bus or car
- Celebrations: Christmas, Higmore
[See Also: Best Beaches in Goa for Honeymoon]
8. Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, Utorda Railroad Crossing, Goa:
This is a unique looking Panjim church in Goa with a bell at the top of the structure and a very Neo-Romantic style of architecture. The largest church in Goa is very small compared to other local churches. The largest church in Goa then slowly expanded as the number of believers increased. Still, the stained glass and the white color of the famous church in northern Goa make the church look very calm and serene. The church was established in 1913. The schedule for Old Goa Church information is weekdays and weekends.
- Church Day: Monday to Saturday, Sunday
- time: 6.30am and 8.30am on weekdays, 10.30am and 5pm on Sundays
- Place: Railroad crossing, Utorda, Goa
- how can I get there: by using the railway.
- Celebrations: Christmas
9. Santa Clara Church, Asonora, Goa:
Goa’s Santa Clara Church is one of the oldest in the region. The forest is surrounded by dense green forest and looks very beautiful. Also, the pure white exterior paint of the most beautiful church in Goa gives a very fairytale vibe to the overall impression of the place. However, it should be remembered that in the past, this ancient Goan church has been attacked and rebuilt many times in its history. This shows the strength of the foundation of the Holy Cathedral Church in Goa and the perseverance of the people around it. The church was founded in 1748. The Old Goa Church of the Church is scheduled on weekdays and weekends.
- Church Day: Monday to Saturday, Sunday
- time: 6.45am on weekdays, 7am to 8.30am on Sundays
- Place: Sonora, Goa
- how can I get there: Help by bus or car.
- Celebrations: Christmas
- Other attractions: nearby forest.
10. San Sebastian Church, Artinho, Panjim, Goa:
San Sebastian Church is a well-known chapel in southern Goa, white and also attracting a lot of tourists. This is a very popular tourist attraction in Panjim, the capital of Goa. This church in southern Goa features the striking cross, which was placed in the original Inquisition. According to people who visited the North Goa church, the crucifix has the power to reward and punish people based on their actions. St. Augustine Church Goa was established in 1818.
- Church Day: Monday to Saturday, Sunday
- time: 6.45am on weekdays, 7am to 8.30am on Sundays
- Place: Altinho, Panjim, Goa
- how can I get there: By using a car or bus.
- Celebrations: Christmas
11. St. John the Baptist Church, Benaulim, Goa:
St. John’s Church is one of the most famous churches in Old Goa and is baptized under the name Old Goa Church. Goa’s old Goa Church is built on top of a hill with very elegant interiors and numerous art galleries. This has led to frequent visits to the whitewashed church as well. The surroundings of Francis Xavier Church Goa are very peaceful and quiet, so the whole place is also very peaceful. Various celebrations take place at this finest church in North Goa. The church was established in 1956.
- Church Day: Monday to Saturday, Sunday
- time: 7am on weekdays, 6.15am and 7.45pm on Sundays
- Place: Benaulim, Goa
- how can I get there: Help by train or bus.
- Celebrations: Christmas, Feast of the Three Kings
- Other attractions: around the place.
12. St. Elizabeth Church, Aldona, Balbot, Ucassaim, Goa:
The Church of St. Elizabeth has a statue of Christ on top of the old Goa church image and is one of the oldest churches in Goa. Goa church photos are built in Mannerist style and therefore contain various Rococo styles as well. The best churches in South Goa were once destroyed in a storm, but churches in Goa, India are well maintained throughout the year. Goa’s famous church name was established in 1708. Goa Church visits are only available on Saturdays and Sundays.
- Church Day: Saturday Sunday
- time: 6am to 7pm
- Place: Aldona, Balbot, Ucassem, Goa
- how can I get there: You can arrive by train or bus or private car.
- Celebrations: Christmas, Sao Joao.
[See Also: Famous Temples in Goa]
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:
1. Should you travel to Goa during the rainy season?
answer: Due to Goa’s location close to the sea, temperatures in the area remain moderate and rainfall is also high. As such, the area is not heavily affected by rainfall, so you won’t be bothered by heavy rainfall in the area. The weather here is very pleasant all year round. That’s why it attracts so many people every year.
2. Besides exploring churches, what else can you do in Goa?
answer: Apart from visiting churches, there is much more that you can do in Goa. You can go swimming at the beach; you can enjoy music and culture. You can also taste delicious seafood in Goa. Beyond that, there’s always a lot of…