Churches and Convents of Goa
The magnificent 16th century city once known as "Goa Dourada" (Golden Goa) rivaled the European cities in splendour and wealth. Today some of the grandeur can be witnessed at the imposing churches, convents and monasteries that remain.
Goa has some world famous churches and convents and the most comprehensive group of churches and cathedrals built during 16th and 17th century AD at Old Goa and are a legacy of the Portuguese. The famous churches of old Goa comprises of Se` Cathedral, Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi, Chapel of St. Catherine, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of Lady of Rosary, the Church of St Augustine and the Church of St. Cajetan. These monuments were influential in spreading forms of Manueline, Mannerist and Baroque art in all the countries of Asia where missions were established.
The churches display a combination of the Renaissance and Baroque styles. They are generally built of laterite and lime plaster. The paintings in the churches were done on wooden borders and fixed between panels having floral designs as in the chapels housing the tomb of St. Xavier, the arches above the altars in the transept of the Se` Cathedral and in the nave on either side of the main altar in the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Excepting a few which are in stone, the statues are mostly in wood delicately carved and painted to adorn the altars. They depict mostly the saints, Mother Mary and Jesus on the cross.
Most of the churches of Goa are functioning institutions which are revered by Christians and Hindus alike. These churches are astounding buildings, which make you humble. The architecture has such a grace that you will feel exhilarated. Apart from holy relevance, these places are visited mostly to appreciate the fine architectural styles.
These churches of Goa give you an idea as to what heights the architectural supremacy of those bygone eras had reached. You should visit these beautiful churches at least once. |
