Church of St. Francis of Assisi – Old Goa, Goa

Nestled in the historic city of Old Goa, the Church of St. Francis of Assisi stands as a magnificent testament to the region's rich colonial past and religious heritage. Built by Portuguese friars in the early 17th century, this iconic structure blends intricate Baroque and Manueline architectural styles, making it one of the most striking churches in Goa. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it not only serves as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Goa’s deep-rooted Christian traditions and artistic grandeur.

About the Church

The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, located in Old Goa, is a historically significant Roman Catholic church built by Portuguese Franciscan friars in 1517 and later reconstructed in 1661. Recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the church stands as a magnificent example of Tuscan, Baroque, and Corinthian architectural styles. It is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical landmark that attracts visitors from all over the world. With its intricate wood carvings, frescoes, and a museum showcasing Goa’s Christian heritage, the church is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.

Description

Established by eight Portuguese Franciscan friars who arrived in Goa in 1517, the original structure began as a modest chapel completed in 1521. Due to deterioration, it was reconstructed in 1661, retaining the original Portuguese-Manueline style portal while adopting a Tuscan-style façade. The church's interior is adorned in Baroque style with Corinthian influences, featuring a single vaulted nave, side chapels, and a richly gilded main altar. Notable elements include a statue of St. Francis of Assisi and Jesus on the cross, as well as paintings depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis .

Speciality

Architectural Fusion: The church uniquely combines Portuguese-Manueline, Tuscan, and Baroque architectural styles, making it a distinctive specimen in India .

Artistic Interiors: The interiors boast intricate wood carvings, floral frescoes, and paintings illustrating biblical scenes and the life of St. Francis.

Archaeological Museum: The adjoining convent, converted into a museum by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1964, houses artifacts, sculptures, and portraits from Goa's history .

Church Information

Address: Off National Highway 4, Velha Goa, Goa 403110, India.

Coordinates: 15.5032° N, 73.9113° E

Entry Fee:

Church: Free entry

Museum: ₹10 per person (Free for children below 12 years)

Visiting Hours

Church Timings:

Monday to Saturday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Sunday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Museum Timings:

Monday to Sunday:

Morning: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Evening: 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Special Features & Religious Activities

Unique Aspects:

UNESCO Heritage Site

Intricate wood carvings & frescoes

Museum showcasing Goan-Christian heritage

Feast Celebrations:

Feast of St. Francis of Assisi (October 4th)

Christmas & Easter Mass Services

Daily Mass:

Conducted in Konkani and English

How to Reach the Church

By Road

Well-connected via Goa State Transport (Kadamba Transport Corporation - KTC) buses.

Taxis, autos, and rental bikes are available from Panaji, Margao, and Vasco.

By Train

Nearest Railway Station: Karmali Railway Station (5 km away).

Trains available from major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, and Delhi.

By Air

Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim) – 25 km away.

Domestic and international flights available.

By Bus

Nearest Bus Station: Old Goa Bus Stand (1 km away).

Regular buses from Panaji, Mapusa, Margao, and Vasco.

Facilities

Food & Restaurants Nearby

Vinayak Family Restaurant

Ritz Classic

Café de Goa

Traditional Goan seafood, cashew feni, and local delicacies are available nearby.

Accommodation Options

Budget Hotels: OYO Hotels, Ginger Goa

Luxury Hotels: Taj Resort, Grand Hyatt Goa

Homestays & Guesthouses available in Old Goa and Panaji.

Nearby Attractions

Religious & Historical Places

Basilica of Bom Jesus (UNESCO Heritage Site housing relics of St. Francis Xavier)

Se Cathedral (One of Asia’s largest churches, home to the "Golden Bell")

Church of St. Cajetan (Inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City)

Viceroy’s Arch (Historic Portuguese-era gateway)

Museum of Christian Art (Collection of artifacts from Goa’s Portuguese history)

Other Tourist Spots

Fontainhas Latin Quarter (Old Portuguese neighborhood in Panaji)

Dona Paula Viewpoint (Popular coastal spot)

Miramar Beach (Relaxing beach destination)

Aguada Fort (Historical Portuguese fort with sea views)

Nearby Cities

Panaji (Panjim) – 10 km (Capital of Goa)

Margao – 30 km

Mapusa – 25 km

Vasco da Gama – 35 km

Best Time to Visit

November to February (Pleasant weather and festive celebrations)

Avoid monsoon (June–September) due to heavy rains.

Local Shopping & Specialties

Goan handicrafts, souvenirs, and artifacts

Azulejos tiles (Portuguese-style hand-painted tiles)

*Cashew nuts, spices, and feni (local liquor)

Mapusa Market & Panjim Market for local goods

The Church of St. Francis of Assisi is a timeless symbol of Goa’s rich Portuguese heritage and Christian traditions. Whether you visit for religious purposes, historical exploration, or to admire its artistic beauty, this UNESCO-listed site offers a unique and enriching experience. With its proximity to other historic landmarks, easy accessibility by road, rail, and air, and nearby accommodation and dining options, a visit to this church is a rewarding journey through Goa’s past and present. For the best experience, plan your trip between November and February to enjoy pleasant weather and festive celebrations.