Basilica of Bom Jesus
Goa, India
- Admire the artwork
- Attend a mass
- Explore the basilica
- Visit St. Francis Xavier's tomb
Known for:
Description:
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Old Goa, India. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Goa and is known for its stunning Baroque architecture and the preserved remains of St. Francis Xavier. The basilica is a beautiful example of 16th-century architecture and features intricate carvings, gilded altars, and stunning frescoes. Visitors can explore the basilica's many chapels, admire the ornate artwork, and pay their respects to the revered saint. The church is renowned for its religious significance and historical importance, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.
History:
Construction of the Basilica of Bom Jesus began in 1594 and was completed in 1605. It is one of the oldest churches in Goa and is dedicated to Infant Jesus. The basilica is notable for housing the incorrupt body of St. Francis Xavier, a revered Jesuit missionary who played a key role in spreading Christianity in Asia. His body, brought to Goa in 1554, lies in a silver casket within the basilica and is periodically displayed for public veneration. The Basilica's historical significance, combined with its stunning architecture, makes it a prominent landmark in Goa's rich cultural heritage. It stands as a testament to the region's colonial past and its enduring religious fervor.