Old Goa Churches

UNESCO World Heritage Site

About Old Goa Churches

Old Goa, once the capital of Portuguese India, is home to some of the most magnificent churches in Asia. These 16th-century churches represent the golden age of Portuguese colonial architecture and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The churches of Old Goa are not just architectural marvels but also hold immense religious significance, particularly the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.

Quick Facts

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986
  • Main Churches: Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Church of St. Francis of Assisi
  • Architectural Style: Portuguese Baroque
  • Best Time to Visit: October to March
  • Entry Fee: Free (Donations welcome)

Historical Significance

Portuguese Colonial Era

Old Goa was established as the capital of Portuguese India in 1510 and remained so until 1843. During this period, the Portuguese built numerous churches and convents, transforming Old Goa into the "Rome of the East."

The churches were built to serve both religious and political purposes, showcasing Portuguese power and spreading Christianity in Asia.

UNESCO Recognition

The churches and convents of Old Goa were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1986, recognized for their outstanding universal value and exceptional architectural significance.

The site represents a unique blend of European and Indian architectural styles, creating a distinctive Indo-Portuguese aesthetic.

Major Churches

Basilica of Bom Jesus

  • Built: 1594-1605
  • Architectural Style: Baroque
  • Key Feature: Tomb of St. Francis Xavier
  • Special Events: Feast of St. Francis Xavier

Se Cathedral

  • Built: 1562-1619
  • Architectural Style: Portuguese-Gothic
  • Key Feature: Golden Bell
  • Special Events: Christmas Mass

Church of St. Francis of Assisi

  • Built: 1661
  • Architectural Style: Baroque
  • Key Feature: Museum
  • Special Events: Feast of St. Francis

Architectural Features

Exterior Design

  • Laterite stone construction
  • Ornate facades with carvings
  • Baroque-style portals
  • Bell towers and domes
  • Cross-shaped floor plans

Interior Design

  • Gilded altars
  • Frescoes and paintings
  • Wooden carvings
  • Stained glass windows
  • Marble flooring

Religious Significance

St. Francis Xavier

The Basilica of Bom Jesus houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a co-founder of the Society of Jesus. His body is preserved in a silver casket and is displayed to the public every 10 years during the Exposition of the Sacred Relics.

The next exposition is scheduled for 2024, attracting thousands of pilgrims from around the world.

Religious Festivals

  • Feast of St. Francis Xavier (December 3)
  • Christmas Celebrations
  • Easter Services
  • Good Friday Processions
  • All Saints' Day

Conservation Efforts

Preservation Projects

  • Structural reinforcement
  • Restoration of frescoes
  • Conservation of artifacts
  • Climate control systems
  • Visitor management

How You Can Help

  • Follow designated paths
  • Respect religious customs
  • Make donations
  • Report any concerns
  • Support local initiatives

Visitor Information

Timings and Entry

  • Open: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Entry: Free (Donations welcome)
  • Photography: Allowed (No flash)
  • Dress Code: Modest clothing required
  • Guided Tours: Available

Facilities

  • Parking available
  • Restrooms
  • Information center
  • Gift shop
  • Wheelchair access

Photo Gallery

Basilica of Bom Jesus
Se Cathedral
Church of St. Francis

How to Reach

By Road

Old Goa is 10 km from Panjim and 30 km from Dabolim Airport. Regular buses and taxis are available.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Karmali (3 km). Regular trains connect to major cities.

Location & Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entry fee for the churches?

Entry to all churches is free, but donations are welcome to support maintenance and conservation efforts.

What is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for photography.

Are guided tours available?

Yes, guided tours are available in multiple languages. You can book them at the information center or through our website.

Book Your Tour

Virtual Tour

360° Virtual Experience

Explore the magnificent churches of Old Goa from the comfort of your home with our interactive virtual tour.

  • High-resolution 360° views
  • Detailed architectural features
  • Historical information points
  • Audio guided commentary
360° View of Old Goa Church

Historical Timeline

1510

Portuguese conquest of Goa

1594

Construction of Basilica of Bom Jesus begins

1652

Se Cathedral completed

1986

UNESCO World Heritage Site designation

Augmented Reality Experience

Bring History to Life

Use our AR app to see how the churches looked in different historical periods and explore hidden architectural details.

  • Historical reconstructions
  • Interactive information points
  • 3D models of artifacts
  • Multilingual audio guides
App Store Play Store
AR Experience Preview

Share Your Experience

Share your photos and experiences at Old Goa Churches with our community!

Use #OldGoaChurches to be featured!

Visitor Reviews

Sarah M.

2 weeks ago

"The virtual tour was amazing! It felt like I was actually there. The historical information was fascinating."

Rajesh K.

1 month ago

"The AR experience brought the history to life. My kids loved it and learned so much!"

Accessibility Information

Facilities for All Visitors

  • Wheelchair accessible ramps and pathways
  • Designated parking spaces for differently-abled visitors
  • Accessible restrooms on-site
  • Braille information boards
  • Audio guides available in multiple languages
  • Wheelchair rental service (prior booking required)

Special Assistance

  • Guided tours for visually impaired visitors
  • Sign language interpreters (available on request)
  • Priority access for differently-abled visitors
  • Companion entry passes
  • Emergency assistance available 24/7

Current Weather

Temperature

28°C

Feels like 30°C

Rainfall

0 mm

No rain expected

Wind

12 km/h

Light breeze

Last updated: 10 minutes ago

Local Cuisine

Must-Try Goan Dishes

Goan Vindaloo

Goan Vindaloo

Spicy pork curry with vinegar and garlic

Sorpotel

Sorpotel

Traditional pork dish with liver and spices

Bebinca

Bebinca

Layered Goan dessert with coconut milk

Nearby Restaurants

Portuguese House

Portuguese House

0.5 km away • Authentic Goan-Portuguese cuisine

Old Goa Cafe

Old Goa Cafe

0.8 km away • Traditional Goan snacks and drinks

Conservation Projects

Current Initiatives

  • Structural reinforcement of ancient walls
  • Restoration of frescoes and paintings
  • Climate control system installation
  • Documentation of architectural details
  • Digital preservation of artifacts

How You Can Help

  • Make a donation to conservation efforts
  • Volunteer for preservation projects
  • Adopt an artifact program
  • Spread awareness about conservation
  • Participate in guided conservation tours

Packing Checklist

Essentials

  • Valid ID proof
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat or umbrella

Clothing

  • Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered)
  • Light jacket (for evenings)
  • Comfortable pants/skirt
  • Extra pair of socks

Optional

  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Guidebook
  • Portable charger
  • Small backpack