Located in the heart of medieval town of Old Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus is highly devoted place of worship for Christians. Basilica of Bom Jesus is located at a distance of 9 km east of Panaji. Counted among the most important churches of Goa, this church is frequently visited by the devotees in large numbers from all across Goa.

Constructed in 1585, this church was accorded the status of a minor basilica in 1946. Counted among the World Heritage Monuments list, this church is also known for its exquisite architecture besides its religious importance.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is dedicated to baby Jesus and houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, Goa’s patron Saint. He breathed his last on a sea voyage to China in 1552. Architecture of the church is designed on the pattern of now abandoned Church of St. Paul.

Originally construction of this structure faced opposition. Part of the building burnt accidentally in 1663 and got reconstructed in 1783. Professed House is located to south of main road and is a two-storeyed laterite structure which is covered with lime plaster.

Church of Bom Jesus was also constructed using laterite. Originally its roof was tiled. There is recent addition of flying buttresses on its northern sides. On its southern side, a single storied structure connects the church with professed house.

Architecture of the church is one of the most charming among the other Goan churches. Corinthian, Ionic and Doric Orders are seen on the west facing façade of this three-storied structure. Two smaller orders adjoin the main entrance which has Corinthian columns. These columns support a pediment. Interiors of the church have a main altar, two chapels, a sacristy and a choir at the entrance. There is also a belfry on its back side.

On solemn occasions, a projected gallery was used for dignitaries. This gallery runs along the two sides in length. Interiors of the church are quite simple while altars are richly done in baroque style. On the top of the façade of the church are inscribed three letters “HIS”. These three letters are the first letters of Jesus in Greek. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is among the most visited Indian Goan Churches.