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Apart from the sunbathed beaches, the main travel attractions in Goa are the churches located in the state. Heritage freaks head towards Old Goa to explore the churches which are known for the Portuguese style architecture.

The main churches in Goa are :

Our Lady of Rosary

One of the earliest churches in India, Our Lady of Rosary adorns the Holy Hill in Velha or Old Goa. It is the oldest in Goa. It is located near the site of Portuguese leader Alfonso de Albuquerque's which shows victory of the leader over the armies of Bijapur Sultan in early 16th century. The architecture of the church is an example of Manueline architecture, a popular style of architecture in Portugal. The architecture is a blend of gothic and Renaissance architecture. The Christians of Goa have a great respect to this church as St. Francis Xavier preached catechism every evening at this church.

The main altar of the church is the image of Nossa Senhora de Rozario or Our Lady of the Rosary. The first look of the church gives an impression of a fortress.

Rachol Seminary

Bearing a changing fortune, Rachol Seminary is located in south Goa. The Portuguese converted a Muslim fortress into a church and later they used it as a prison. It again gained status as a seminary for Theological studies when the Jesuits renamed it from College of All Saints to the College of St. Ignati.

Se Cathedral

One of the most famous churches in Goa, Se Cathedral is dedicated to St. Catherine. The Portuguese leader Alfonso de Albuquerque conquered Goa on November 25, 1510 on the feast day of St. Catherine. A Cross of miracle is placed in this cathedral. The relics of St. Francis were shown to public at earlier time.

Church of St. Francis of Assisi

The convent of Church of St. Francis of Assisi houses an archaeological museum which has a collection of pre-historic time to heritage of Goa such as Goa Dourada, Golden Goa, also known as the 'Pearl of the Orient' or 'Rome of the East' during its glorious days. This church is one of the oldest churches in Goa. The architecture is Manueline. It is located in Old Goa. The eight Franciscan friars who had arrived in 1517 are said to be built this church in Goa with a small chapel with three altars and a choir.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

Located in Old Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus, the famous church in Goa is preserved as a World Heritage monument. It is just 10 kms from Panajim, the new capital of Goa. Mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier are housed in a silver casket in this church. This Jesuit church is called the first minor basilica in India. The architecture is baroque style. The main features are the marble floors, inlaid precious stones, gilded altars. Paintings related to the life of St Francis Xavier are housed in the church.

St Francis Xavier was died while on a sea journey to China in December, 1552. His body was taken to Goa and his mortal remains are preserved in this church. Christian pilgrims visit this church in large number in great devotion to this revered saint.

Other Churches in Goa

The other churches in Goa are Reis Magos Church or Church of the Three Magi Kings (a mission center of the Franciscan Order of Monks), the Church of Mae de Dens or Mother of God (known for Gothic architecture), the Church of St. Alex at Curtorim, Church of St. Anne, etc.

Surviving the ravages of time, the churches in Goa still keep the religious activity of the Christians. Along with the Christian pilgrims, tourists of other religions also visit the churches in Goa.