Basilica De Bom Jesus Goa Overview
The Basilica De Bom Jesus is a famous Roman Catholic church located in Old Goa, India. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church is dedicated to the infant Jesus and is known for its exemplary baroque architecture.
The construction of the church began in 1594 and was consecrated in 1605. The church was built with local laterite stone and except for the front façade, it was whitewashed with lime plaster. The reason for this was that Bassein basalt was not suitable for construction. The church was built by the Jesuits and is India’s first minor basilica.
The church is famous for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a prominent Christian missionary who played a significant role in the spread of Christianity in India. The remains of St. Francis Xavier are kept in a silver casket and are displayed to the public every ten years.
The Basilica De Bom Jesus is open daily to visitors, and there is no entry fee. The church is open from 9 AM to 6:30 PM on weekdays and from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM on Sundays. Visitors can explore the church’s impressive architecture, which includes intricate carvings, frescoes, and paintings. The church also has a museum that houses artifacts related to the church’s history and the life of St. Francis Xavier.
In conclusion, the Basilica De Bom Jesus is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or religion. Its rich history, impressive architecture, and religious significance make it a unique and fascinating place to visit.
Historical Background
The Basilica de Bom Jesus is a Roman Catholic minor basilica located in Old Goa, India. It is considered one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in India and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The basilica was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is dedicated to the infant Jesus. It is the oldest church in Goa and is one of the most visited churches in India.
The construction of the basilica began in 1594 and was completed in 1605. The church was built by the Society of Jesus, a religious order of the Catholic Church, and was designed by the Italian architect, Giovanni Battista Foggini. The basilica is known for its impressive Baroque architecture, which is characterized by its ornate decorations, gilded altars, and intricate carvings.
The basilica is also famous for holding the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a Jesuit missionary who was instrumental in spreading Christianity in Asia. His tomb is located in a silver casket inside the mausoleum of the basilica. The casket is made of black granite and is adorned with the coat of arms of the Medicis, who were the grand dukes of Tuscany.
The basilica is a popular pilgrimage site, and the feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated every year on December 3. The church also houses several other important relics, including those of St. Anthony, Our Lady of Hope, and St. Michael. The basilica is open to visitors every day, and there is no entry fee.
Overall, the Basilica de Bom Jesus is an important landmark in the history of Christianity in India and is a testament to the Portuguese influence on Indian architecture. Its impressive Baroque architecture and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Goa.
Architectural Highlights
The Basilica de Bom Jesus is a remarkable example of baroque architecture. The church’s facade is made of red laterite stone and features a combination of Doric and Corinthian architectural styles. The floor of the church is made of marble and is decorated with precious stones inlaid in it. The predominant element of the church is the gilded golden main altar, which is a sight to behold.
The church also houses a silver casket that contains the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, which is a major landmark in the church. The silver casket is adorned with intricate carvings and is placed on a pedestal behind the main altar. The church’s interior is intentionally kept simple, which allows the main altar to stand out even more.
The Basilica de Bom Jesus is considered to be one of the best examples of baroque architecture in India. The church’s design is a testament to the Jesuits’ commitment to creating beautiful and awe-inspiring places of worship. Visitors to the church can’t help but be impressed by the intricate details and the grandeur of the main altar.
Overall, the Basilica de Bom Jesus is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture or history. Its beautiful design and rich history make it a unique and fascinating destination.
Art Gallery
The Basilica de Bom Jesus houses an art gallery that showcases a collection of paintings and sculptures from the 17th century. The gallery is located on the right side of the main altar and is open to visitors during the church’s opening hours.
One of the most famous paintings in the gallery is “The Last Judgement,” which is a masterpiece by the Italian painter, Giovanni Battista. The painting depicts the final judgement of souls, with Christ presiding over the scene. The painting is known for its vivid colors and intricate details.
Another notable painting on display is “Genesis,” which is a large-scale painting that depicts the creation of the world as described in the Book of Genesis. The painting is over 28 feet long and is one of the largest paintings in the gallery.
In addition to the paintings, the gallery also has a collection of wooden carvings and sculptures. These carvings depict scenes from the Bible and are intricately detailed.
Overall, the art gallery at the Basilica de Bom Jesus is a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts. The collection of Italian paintings and wooden carvings provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Goa and India.
