Churches of Goa are the important institutions in Goa. These magnificent and grand churches are the legacy of Portuguese colonization in Goa for about 500 years. During Portuguese rule in Goa, Christianity was forced upon the people there. This resulted in large population of Christian which is still a major part of Goan population. Churches in Goa hold special importance religious, social and cultural life of Goans. Like churches play important role in spreading education in Goa.

Goan churches are important part of cultural heritage of Goa. Architecture of these churches is of great interest for archeologist, historians and students of architecture and of course tourists. All of these churches are made in European, Portuguese and Indo-European style of architecture.

This interesting Goa travel guide tells you about some important and famous churches of Goa.

Basilica of Bom Jesus
Situated in Old Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus holds special importance among the India Goan Churches. Built in 1695, the Bom Jesus Church was the first church in India to get status of a Minor basilica. The church is designed on the lines of Gesu and has magnificent baroque architecture. The church is devoted to the baby Jesus.

Church of Mary Immaculate Conception
One of the earliest churches, built in Goa, the Church of Mary Immaculate Conception is located at the prominent place in the capital city Panaji. Constructed in 1541, this church holds special importance for the Goans. The dark sky of Panaji gets illuminated with thousands of bulbs which make silhouette of Mary Immaculate Church.

Church of St. Monica
Located on the Monte Santo or the Holy Hill, the Church of St. Monica stands next t the Chapel of St. Anthony. This is a huge nunnery and its construction started in 1606 and completed in 1627. Convent of St. Monica was also the first nunnery of the East.

Church of Our Lady of the Rosary
The Church of Our Lady of Rosary is located on the top of Holy Hill or Monte Santo. This is the oldest surviving church in Goa. This church was built in 1510 by the Portuguese leader Alfonso de Albuquerque's after he conquered over the armies of Bijapur Sultan.

Se Cathedral
Magnificent and the grand Se Cathedral is the sign of Portuguese opulence in the colonial era. Regarded as the largest churches in Asia, the church is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria.