The Indian state of Goa is famous for its beautiful colonial architecture and pristine beaches, and whilst there are several prominent areas for Sightseeing in Goa, the city of Panaji has to be the best. The Goan capital is a top Indian destination to visit for many travellers visiting the south and has a host of beautiful locations to admire thanks to its rich cultural heritage.
Whilst many tourists choose to stay further out of the city to experience the luxurious resorts that Goa has become famous for, like the exclusive Alila Diwa Goa for example; Panaji still retains the colonial charm that draws thousands to its stunning buildings. One of the most visited and celebrated sites is the city’s spiritual centre, the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.
The Catholic Church was originally a small chapel built near the old port landing by the Portuguese in 1541, for sailors who needed their religious needs met once docking at their port of call after arduous months spent at sea. The chapel was then replaced by a much grander church in the 1600s to ministers, to the religious needs of the village residents as well as the sailors. By the 18th century, the church’s iconic entrance, the imposing zigzag stairway, was added to the building, followed by a bell, the second largest in Goa, which was taken from the ruins of an Augustinian monastery.
The stark white façade of the building stands out in the city with its Baroque style of architecture. The interior has subtle shades of colour, whilst the main alter is gold plated with intricate carvings dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Two other golden alters are located on either side, one for Jesus’s Crucifixion and the other for Our Lady of the Rosary. The church is exquisitely illuminated at night and during festive occasions, the wooden beams the form part of the vaulted ceiling are decorated with white and blue flowers. The spectacular building is hard to miss and even if you don’t venture inside, the exterior alone is enough to leave you mesmerised.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.