Goa, India’s sunshine state is not just about beaches, sundowners, cocktails, and seafood. While exploring the region, you will come across several glorious reminders of the bygone ages. Topping the list of such heritage monuments are the churches in Goa which signpost the region’s colonial legacy as well as its tryst with Christianity. Built without restraint, incorporating many trends of European architecture, these churches are where history meets art, spirituality meets splendor.
Want to soak in some old-world grandeur by exploring the churches in Goa? Get out of your hotels in Goa and head off to these top 20 Goan churches.
Churches in Goa (List):
1. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa
Basilica of Bom Jesus | #1 of 20 Churches in Goa
Many experts consider Basilica of Bom Jesus, a 400-year old church dedicated to Infant Jesus, a masterpiece of Baroque expression. This UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Old Goa remains one of the most visited landmarks in the state. The courtyard and marble floors of the church host many treasures, such as emblems, statues, intricate carvings and woodwork, and a collection of paintings, including the artwork of Dom Martin, a celebrated surrealist artist from Goa. The mummified body of Saint Francis Xavier is the key attraction of the church. The grand altar, a Golden Rose Plant gifted by Pope Pius XII, and the grotto in the church compound are the other highlights here.
Want to know more? Read our blog on the Basilica of Bom Jesus to know why it is touted as the best church in Goa.
- Year of Establishment: 1594
- Location: Old Goa Road, Goa
- Timings:
Monday to Saturday – 9:00 am to 6:30 pm
Sunday – 10:30 am to 6:30 pm
2. Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina, Goa
Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina | #2 of 20 Churches in Goa
Another one of the famed UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Goa, Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina is quite distinct because of the missing tower on the right. The history of the church dates back to the turbulent age of early Portuguese occupation. A blend of Tuscan and Corinthian designs can be seen in this edifice that boasts of the Portuguese-Manueline architectural style. A major highlight here is the giant bell called the Golden Bell, which is touted to be the largest in the region. The large and richly ornamented altar, which is dedicated to Catherine of Alexandria and the spacious interiors add a splendorous allure to this half-a-millennium-old structure.
- Year of Establishment: 1619
- Location: Old Goa, Goa
- Timings: 7:00 am to 6:30 pm
3. Saint Catherine’s Chapel, Goa
Saint Catherine’s Chapel | #3 of 20 Churches in Goa
A lot of the old churches in Goa have been built in the Baroque style. One of the smaller, yet enthralling examples is the Saint Catherine’s Chapel that stands out because of its history. It was built in the 16th century to commemorate Portuguese triumph over the ruler Adil Shah. Opposite this brown and white stone chapel, you can still see remnants of the old pre-colonial fort ramparts. The church, which is dedicated to Saint Catherine, is regarded as one of the oldest Christian structures in the entire continent. The design highlights of the church are its windows, twin towers, and the altar.
- Year of Establishment: 1510
- Location: Old Goa, Goa
- Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
4. Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Goa
Church of St. Francis of Assisi | #4 of 20 Churches in Goa
Right next to Saint Catherine Chapel, you will find the well-known Church of St. Francis of Assisi built by the Portuguese. The church is more than 350 years old and while here, you can marvel at the spectacular frescoes and statues of Our Lady of Miracles, St. Francis of Assisi, and the crucified Christ inside the building. Other key features of the church include its three-tier façade with octagonal towers and rich carvings and paintings on the altar. The convent near the church houses a museum established by the Archeological Survey of India and the main exhibits here include Hindu temple sculptures, paintings, and other artifacts.
- Year of Establishment: 1661
- Location: Old Goa
- Timings:
Church – 7:30 am to 6:30 pm
Museum – 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:30 pm
5. Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, Goa
Church of Our Lady of the Rosary | #5 of 20 Churches in Goa
With its three-floor façade, chapels, and richly decorated altars, the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary remains one of the glorious landmarks in Goa. It was among the many churches established by Afonso de Albuquerque, one of the most prominent Dukes of Goa. The church, which is more than 475 years old, is located on a bluff from where you can see the Mandovi River and surrounding landmarks. Many architecture enthusiasts visit this place specifically for the Manueline and Gothic details and the sedate reredos compared to the more opulent ones you would find in other Goa churches.
- Year of Establishment: 1544
- Location: Old Goa
- Timings: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
6. Church of Saint Augustine, Goa
Church of Saint Augustine | #6 of 20 Churches in Goa
There is a mystical aura that permeates the ruins at the Church of Saint Augustine complex, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Churches and Convents in Goa. Established over 400 years ago by Augustinian friars, the church was abandoned in the 19th century. Today, only one of its four towers remains. There used to be an old bell here, but it was moved to the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception once the edifice started dilapidating. In the 1980S, a thrilling excavation project was conducted here by archeologists from Georgia and Soviet Union to retrieve the relics of a Georgian queen named Ketevan the Martyr. The church complex has also been featured in Bollywood movies like Gumnaam and Singham.
- Year of Establishment: 1602
- Location: Old Goa
- Timings: 6:30 am to 12:45 pm and 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm
7. Church of Saint Cajetan, Goa
Church of Saint Cajetan | #7 of 20 Churches in Goa
Another World Heritage landmark, the Church of Saint Cajetan overlooks the Mandovi, one of Goa’s major rivers. The edifice, which is believed to have been built by three Italian priests, traces its history to the seventieth century. The beautiful main dome with Latin inscriptions and the sculptures at the façade are just some of the many noticeable elements. Apart from the main altar, there are six smaller altars complete with huge columns and pilasters. The church, which is also called the Church of Divine Providence, is designed after the Basilica of St. Peter in Rome and features the Corinthian architectural style. You can also see paintings, sculptures, and wooden statues of saints inside this shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence. The Church of Saint Cajetan, no doubt, deserves a place in your list of places to visit in Goa in one day.
- Year of Establishment: 1661
- Location: Old Goa
- Timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 am to 7:00 pm
8. Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Goa
Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception | #8 of 20 Churches in Goa
Situated in the state capital Panaji, the hilltop Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception offers visitors splendid views of the surrounding areas. The architectural style of this 16th-century church is Baroque, a popular choice of the times. The church houses an old bell that is the second largest in the state (yes, the same bell that was brought from the Church of Saint Augustine, if you remember). The belfry on top of the grand façade in white is one of the most striking features in the exteriors while the interiors, though not as ornate as other churches in Goa, blend many vibrant colors. This beautiful white structure with zigzagging steps certainly counts among the top places to visit in North Goa.
- Year of Establishment: 1609
- Location: Panaji, Goa
- Timings: 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and 03:30 pm to 07:30 pm
9. Alex Church, Goa
Alex Church | #9 of 20 Churches in Goa
If you need a breather from the partying hordes of Calangute, you don’t need to go too far. St. Alex Church has been a landmark here for about three centuries and apart from the towers and white finish, it is known for its blend of Indian and Portuguese building styles. Behind the main altar, you can marvel at the gilded reredos on the back wall. The interiors of the St. Alex Church feature a heavily ornate style known as Rococo or Late Baroque. Do not leave this out if you want to explore the best churches in North Goa.
- Year of Establishment: 1741
- Location: Calangute, Goa
- Timings: 9:00 am 8:30 pm
10. Mae De Deus Church, Goa
Mae De Deus Church | #10 of 20 Churches in Goa
The neo-Gothic spires of the Mae De Deus Church will captivate you from a distance along with its pristine white walls that stand out of the verdant, lush surroundings of the Goan countryside. The statue and cross in front of the church, the buttresses of the building, and the spikes that adorn the entire length of the walls are some of the key highlights here. You can also see a gold-painted wooden statue of Mary at the side altar while the carved and gilded ornamentation of the interiors add to the allure of the structure. No wonder, the church counts among the top places to visit in Goa.
- Year of Establishment: 1873
- Location: Saligao, Goa
- Timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
11. Three Kings Chapel, Goa
Three Kings Chapel | #11 of 20 Churches in Goa
A quaint landmark with an interesting tale in its heart, the Three Kings Chapel is considered as one of Goa’s most haunted places. Apart from the ghostly tales, however, the Three Kings Chapel is a wonderful place to visit because of its location on the summit of a hillock. Tucked away in the small village of Cansaulim, it traces its origins back to the late 16th century and counts among the best churches in South Goa. Enjoy nice views of the fields and villages that dot the surrounding areas and don’t forget to click some Instagram-worthy pictures.
Speaking of tales from the crypt, do you fancy taking a chilling trip through the spooky places in the region? Read our blog on the most haunted places in Goa that will leave you shaking to the bones.
- Year of Establishment: 1599
- Location: Cansaulim, Goa
- Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm
12. Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca, Goa
Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca | #12 of 20 Churches in Goa
Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca is a beautiful 17th-century structure located in the northern part of Panaji. The church owes its name to Saint Nossa Senhora, a Spanish saint who is believed to have protected sailors voyaging to India. The structure showcases certain common design elements found in the region, like the white façade and walls, stained glass windows, and tiled roofing. The striking background of lush vegetation and its proximity to the confluence of two rivers makes it a delightful place to photograph and explore, especially in the golden hours. The interiors of the church have certain highlights such as high ceilings and the paintings on the reredos.
- Year of Establishment: 1626
- Location: Bardez, Goa
- Timings: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm
13. Clara’s Church, Goa
Clara’s Church | #13 of 20 Churches in Goa
Those who seek the image of an idyllic Goa, one that has been lost in the tide of modern recreation, will enjoy a trip to St. Clara’s Church. Set in a serene location, the mighty church looms over fields and groves of tropical trees. Built in the 18th century, it is one of the most enduring landmarks of Goa and has been destroyed and rebuilt a few times over. Visit to soak in the tenacity and hospitality of the local culture.
- Year of Establishment: 1768
- Location: Assonora, Goa
- Timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
14. Andrew’s Church, Goa
Andrew’s Church | #14 of 20 Churches in Goa
One of the largest churches in Goa, the St. Andrew’s Church attracts many pilgrims and fervent history aficionados from all over the country and beyond. Founded by the Jesuits over four centuries ago, the church is dedicated to Saint Andrew who is the patron saint of fishermen. The white façade is dotted with fine woodwork and stained glass windows and the simply laid altar-reredos is another highlight of the church.
- Year of Establishment: 1570
- Location: Vasco Da Gama, Goa
- Timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
15. Diogo Church, Goa
Diogo Church | #15 of 20 Churches in Goa
A multilevel white façade welcomes you to St. Diogo Church, which is located in a fairly popular location of Goa. The main altar of the church is dedicated to patron saint St. Diogo and the church is believed to be more than 400 years old. Five more ornate altars adorn the different sections of the interiors and the arched entry doors are another distinct feature of the church. Locally called the Guirim church, the place traces its history back to the early 17th century and was remodeled several times over the past four centuries.
- Year of Establishment: 1604
- Location: Guirim, Goa
- Timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
16. Santa Cruz Church, Goa
Santa Cruz Church | #16 of 20 Churches in Goa
Santa Cruz church, also known as the Holy Cross Church, is another must-visit landmark in Goa. Its Neo-Roman splendor will captivate any lover of architecture. The white color of the exterior walls and façade, inspired by the Se Cathedral, provides a striking sight even from a long distance. Built at the recommendation of the king of Portugal, this magnificent structure boasts of a history of over 450 years. The church celebrates its feast at the beginning of May and it involves many festivities and rituals.
- Year of Establishment: 1547
- Location: Santa Cruz, Goa
- Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
17. Church of the Cross of Miracles, Goa
Church of the Cross of Miracles | #17 of 20 Churches in Goa
In India, travelers will come across many religious landmarks that may be dedicated to one particular religion but are revered equally by all. The Church of the Cross of Miracles is one such place located on the outskirts of Old Goa. The church has been associated with supernatural apparitions (of a crucified human being!) experienced by many since the 17th century and many come here to pray for their wishes to come true. The Church of the Cross of Miracles boasts a scenic location on the Boa Vista hill and you can spot Se Cathedral and St. Augustine’s tower from this hilltop.
- Year of Establishment: 1619
- Location: Bainguinim, Old Goa
- Timings: NA
18. Chapel of St. Sebastian, Goa
The 200-year-old chapel of St. Sebastian is a compact structure which is most famous for its elegant crucifix. In this crucifix, the sculpture of Jesus Christ has open eyes, adding a startling effect on the viewer compared to more gentle representations. If you visit the church in November, you can enjoy a street fair that marks the Feast of Our Lady of Livrament.
- Year of Establishment: 1818
- Location: Panaji, Goa
- Timings: 9:30 am to 1:00 pm and 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm
19. Elizabeth Church, Goa
One of the most unique churches in North Goa, the St. Elizabeth Church features the Mannerist style of architecture complete with Rococo features. The edifice has a pleasant rural setting, surrounded by paddy fields. Inside the church compound, you will come across statues of the patron saint (Saint Elizabeth of Portugal) along with smaller sculptures of St. Luis Gonzaga, St. Anne, Mother Mary and other important personalities of Christianity. Though the construction of the original structure dates back to over 400 centuries, the church has been reconstructed and remodeled several times in the subsequent centuries into what we see today.
- Year of Establishment: 1618
- Location: Ucassaim
- Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
20. Church of St. Anne, Goa
Church of St. Anne | #20 of 20 Churches in Goa
Located close to the Siridao River, the Church of St. Anne offers nice views and it also features many interesting architectural features. You can marvel at the high ceiling and tall façade of this 17th-century Indian Baroque structure. It is believed that certain dimensions in the church follow Indian building principles and the finely decorated altar is one of the main highlights. The church has a rustic charm about it. Signs of aging can be seen manifested in certain sections, adding more character to this very resilient landmark.
- Year of Establishment: 1695
- Location: Talaulim, Goa
- Timings: 6:30 am to 6:00 pm
Don’t think this is a complete list of churches in Goa. There are many more shrines in the region, each with a unique place in the long and rich colonial history of Goa. Remember, a lot of these churches do not have strict timings and the mass timings also vary. Whether you are looking to explore the architectural splendor of these churches or attend the mass, it is recommended that you check the timings before heading out. So, are you all set to take a spiritual trail through the Party Capital of India?
This post was last modified on 29-Dec-2023