Catholic Church of St. Francis of Assisi

4.4

Location: Off National Highway 4, Goa Velha, Goa 403110, India

Estimated Visiting Time: 2 to 3 hours ( approximately)

Located in Velha, Goa, India, The Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi was built in 1661 by the Portuguese in their Viceroyalty of India. It is together a church and convent which was established by eight Portuguese Franciscan friars who landed in Goa in 1517. This Church and Convent is a World Heritage site in Goa. It is a historical landmark in Goa. People from all over the world come to visit this place. This is a must-visit place in Goa. If you are in Goa, you can’t afford to miss this place.

Attraction

This is an ancient church in Goa and a historical landmark of the city. It has a history of over 400 years. You will come to know about the history of the place and the city also. The architecture and the interior of the church are just excellent. You can explore the museum and the portrait gallery. Moreover, it is a holy place. The atmosphere of the church is so relaxing and pleasant.

History

The main church was constructed by eight famous Portuguese Franciscan friars, who reached Goa, in the year 1517.

Sometime after they arrived in Goa, they received legal approval for preaching Christianity in the city. It was first built as a small chapel in 1521 and after a few years, it was converted to a fully functioning church.

The convent was used as accommodation and built by the Franciscan friars in 1527.

The convent structure was converted to a museum after liberation from Portuguese rule which was established by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1964.

Here you can find precious sculptures and pre-Portuguese coins and portraits of Viceroys and Governor- Generals.

Inside/Outside Views

The structure of the church is a mix of Tuscan order, Corinthian and Baroque styles of architecture. The entire structure of this church is made with laterite blocks and the exterior walls are covered with lime plaster the full structure holds a facade with three levels on each side.

There is a large statue of St. Michael in the center. The main entrance of the church has rosette decoration and circular pilasters and the inner walls of this church have floral frescoes. The church’s nave is barrel-vaulted. If you walk down the nave, there you will see a chapel. On the top of the chapel there you will find a gallery.

The main altar of the church is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi and there is a huge statue of the saint. There you will also find a statue of Jesus.

Opening Hours

The church opens every day of the week except Sunday. It opens every morning at 7:30 am and closes at 6:30

The Museum also opens every day of the week. The opening and closing time of the museum is 9 am to 12:30 pm and from 3 pm to 6:30 pm.

Entry & Others Fees

No entry fee is required to visit the church. Visitors can visit it free of cost.

The entry fee for the museum is INR 10 for adults ( per person). But is it free for children below 12 years old.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By air: The nearest airport to Basilica of Bom Jesus is Goa international airport. It is about 29.6 km away from the church. It is well connected with the other major cities of India. At the airport, you can find local transport which can take you to the renowned place.

By train: The Karmali Railway Station is located at a distance of 31.2 km from the Basilica of Bom Jesus. This railway station is also well connected with the other major cities of India. To reach your destination, you need to hire any local transport which is available at the railway station.

Tips for Travellers

Visitors are allowed to carry small bags. So, carry your essential things in a small bag. Carry your photo ID card.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, there is no doubt about the safety of the place. But, if you face any kind of problem you can contact the police. Here is the local police station information for you. Hope it will help you.

Location: Goa Velha, Goa 403402, India

Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8wCJxuhENVfptS996

Phone no: +91 832 228 5301

Que-02: Is photography allowed in this place?

Ans: No, photography is not allowed inside the church. Not even with your phone. You just can take pictures outside.

Que-03: Can a visitor carry a bag with them?

Ans: Yes, a visitor can carry a purse or a bag pack. Heavy bags are not allowed.

Que-04: Is there any dress code?

Ans: No, there is no dress code. But you can’t wear sleeveless, short pants, a tank top or something like that. You must wear decent clothes. Otherwise, the security will not permit you to enter the church.

Que-05: Is there food available in the Church and convent of St. Francis of Assisi?

Ans: You will find food stalls around the church area, not on the church premises. But you will find drinking water there.

Que-06: Is parking available in the Church and convent of St. Francis of Assisi?

Ans: Yes, parking is available in the Church and convent of St. Francis of Assisi.

Que-07: Is there any washroom in the Church and convent of St. Francis of Assisi?

Ans: Yes, washrooms are available in the church for the use of visitors.

Que-08: When is the best time to visit the Church and convent of St. Francis of Assisi?

Ans: The Church and convent of St. Francis of Assisi can be visited any time of the year. But the perfect time to visit is from October to March. At that time the weather in the city remains excellent.