The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
Chances are most people who visit Panaji, formerly known as Panjim do so to religiously make their way to one of the many offshore casinos along the riverside, to spend a bit of their hard-earned cash. And then some devotedly make their way to another, more significant site – The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.
For those willing to go that extra mile, it is truly worth your while. Even better if you are sitting in a car being driven by a local friend who knows the narrow-crowded streets of Panaji like the palm of his hand. As he weaves his car through the by-lanes, dodging two-wheelers, stray dogs, and other unruly drivers, be aware of your surroundings, because, at some point, the church will pop up right in front of your eyes, in all its grandeur and glory.
A church with a rich history
Originally built as a chapel in 1541, it was meant to serve the needs of Portuguese sailors calling port at Panaji, which in those days used to be the first port of call in their conquest of India.
The actual church that you see today would take a further 150-odd years to construct and complete, finally throwing open its doors to the devout in 1619. While it has many architectural features, among its most visible from the exterior is the belfry that houses the second largest bell in Goa. The largest is the golden bell that is housed at the Se Cathedral Church in Old Goa.
Among the most distinctive churches anywhere in the world
The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception stands as a true testament to the architectural beauty that is so uniquely Goan with its distinctive Portuguese influence. With its white facade and prominent bell tower, it is an iconic historical landmark in the heart of the capital city of Goa.
It is not the only example of a Roman Catholic church so named and dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
There are other examples, including The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Manila Cathedral) in Manila, Philippines, and The Cathedral of St. John the Divine (commonly referred to as the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception) in St John, Antigua and Barbuda. Among the most well-known, and largest church in the Americas is the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., United States. It is also one of the ten largest churches in the world.
However, for many of us here in India, and plenty of travelers from around the world, this church right here in Goa is perhaps the most familiar.
A spiritual discovery unlike any other
Walk in through the door and you are greeted by plenty of religious statues. Take time to admire the ornate decor inside. Or simply stop to offer your prayers at the many altars. Once you have paid obeisance at the church and absolved yourself of all your past sins, why not take a walk around the area? The view of the church from the equally famous Fontainhas neighborhood, with its vibrant Portuguese-styled homes, makes your spiritual tour that much more enriching.
Among the many highlights of the church, and one that you should try and time your visit to, is the annual feast day, celebrated on the 8th of December each year. Held in honor of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, it is when it draws millions of devotees and visitors from around the world, all coming together for a grand celebration featuring religious processions, ceremonies, and festivities.
On an interesting side note, St Francis Xavier, in his spiritual life, authorized the construction of several churches across India. However, it is this church that he considered his greatest achievement.
Seek it out on your next visit to the state
For those out and about on your break in Goa, check it out if you have the time. It sits atop a hill facing the square down below on R Emidio Gracia Road in Altinho.
Akhnaten Mallya
Part time nomad | Dreamer | Pretend entrepreneur | Advertising professional who's hardly at his desk
