 Bom Jesus Basillica is arguably the most revered churches throughout the world. Although partially in ruins, the church is still a perfect example of Jesuit architecture in its simplicity and elegance. Only 10 km away from Panaji, the church of Bom Jesus Basillica has become a world heritage monument.
In the year 1594, the foundation stone of this remarkable church was laid. The church was completed in the year1605. In the year 1946, this church was raised to the status of a minor Basillica. This magnificent church stands as the finest example of Baroque architecture. The word "Bom Jesus" means good Jesus or infant Jesus. This church is quite big in comparison with the churches built during those period. The roof was tiled. The three storied facade of the church, has a main entrance flanked by two smaller entrances. There are two chapels and a main alter.
There is a cenotaph on the southern part of the church. Along the southern wall there is a wooden pulpit with a canopy on top. The pulpit have carved designs. There are two decorated and extremely beautiful alter at the either side of the main alter. The main alter is richly gilded and has a statue of ancient Jesus. On the southern part of the Basillica the sacred remains of St. Francis Xavier are kept.
If you visit the Basillica today make it a point to visit the modern art gallery adjacent as well. |
