Basilica of Bom Jesus Goa

Goa

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a famous Roman Catholic Church in the western Indian state of Goa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its Baroque architecture and is one of the oldest churches in India, built in 1605. The church is dedicated to infant Jesus and is famous for holding the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a prominent Jesuit missionary in the 16th century.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most visited tourist sites in Goa, attracting visitors from all over the world. The church is renowned for its architecture, which combines Baroque and Corinthian styles. The church's exterior is made of laterite stone, commonly used to construct Goan buildings in the 17th century. The interior is decorated with precious stones and is adorned with frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis Xavier.

The most significant feature of the Basilica of Bom Jesus is the tomb of St. Francis Xavier, which is made of silver and marble. The body of St. Francis Xavier is kept in a glass coffin, which is visible to visitors. The tomb is located in the right transept of the church and is considered one of the world's most significant Christian relics. The tomb is opened once every ten years for public veneration.

Apart from the tomb of St. Francis Xavier, the Basilica of Bom Jesus has many other significant features. The church houses several chapels, each dedicated to a different saint. The church's main altar is adorned with intricate carvings and is made of marble. The church also has a choir loft with a magnificent pipe organ.

Visitors to the Basilica of Bom Jesus can take a guided tour of the church, including a visit to St. Francis Xavier's tomb. The church is open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with no entry fee. Visitors are advised to dress modestly and maintain decorum while inside the church.

Visitor Information
  • Trip Duration: 2-3 hrs
  • Transportation Options: Bus/Car/Auto
  • Major Airports: Goa Airport

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FAQs about Basilica Bom Jesus

  1. Q1.
    What is the history of the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    The Basilica of Bom Jesus was built in 1605 and is one of the oldest churches in India. The church is dedicated to infant Jesus and is famous for holding the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
  2. Q2.
    What is the significance of the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    The Basilica of Bom Jesus is renowned for its Baroque architecture and is one of Goa's most visited tourist sites. The church is famous for holding the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, one of the most significant Christian relics in the world.
  3. Q3.
    What is the architecture of the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    The Basilica of Bom Jesus features a combination of Baroque and Corinthian styles. The church's exterior is made of laterite stone, and the interior is decorated with precious stones and adorned with frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis Xavier.
  4. Q4.
    Is the tomb of St. Francis Xavier visible to visitors?
    Yes, the tomb of St. Francis Xavier is visible to visitors. The body of St. Francis Xavier is kept in a glass coffin located in the right transept of the church.
  5. Q5.
    What is the dress code for visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    Visitors are advised to dress modestly and maintain decorum while inside the church.
  6. Q6.
    What are the timings of the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    The Basilica of Bom Jesus is open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
  7. Q7.
    Is there an entry fee to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    No, there is no entry fee to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
  8. Q8.
    What is the dress code to enter the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    The Basilica of Bom Jesus dress code is quite strict, and visitors are expected to dress modestly. Men must wear full-length pants, and women must cover their shoulders and wear clothing that covers their knees. Visitors may be allowed entry into the basilica if they do not follow the dress code.
  9. Q9.
    Are there any entry fees to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    There are no entry fees to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus. However, visitors may need to pay a fee to enter the nearby museum or take a guided basilica tour.
  10. Q10.
    What is the best time to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    The best time to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus is during the winter months between November and February when the weather is cool and pleasant. However, as Goa is a popular tourist destination, the basilica can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  11. Q11.
    Are cameras and mobile phones allowed inside the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    Yes, cameras and mobile phones are allowed inside the basilica, but visitors cannot take photos or videos of the paintings and artifacts on display.
  12. Q12.
    Can visitors attend mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    Yes, visitors can attend mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus. The mass is held every day at different times in different languages. However, visitors must be respectful and follow the instructions of the church authorities during the mass.
  13. Q13.
    Is the Basilica of Bom Jesus wheelchair accessible?
    Yes, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is wheelchair accessible, and visitors can access all areas of the Basilica and the nearby museum.
  14. Q14.
    Is any nearby accommodation available for visitors to the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    Yes, several hotels and guest houses are available near the Basilica of Bom Jesus. These range from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Visitors can choose accommodation according to their preferences and budget.
  15. Q15.
    What other tourist attractions are there near the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
    Several other tourist attractions are near the Basilica of Bom Jesus, such as the Se Cathedral, the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, and the Archaeological Museum of Goa. Visitors can plan a day trip to explore these attractions and learn more about the history and culture of Goa.
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