Goa is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the sun, sand and sea. But Goa also has a rich cultural and historical heritage that reflects its colonial past. One of the most prominent landmarks of Goa is the Immaculate Conception Church, located in the capital city of Panjim and famous tourist attraction in Old Goa, visit during Old Goa Sightseeing tour package. This church is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of Goa’s identity and history.
Location of Immaculate Conception Church
The Immaculate Conception Church is situated on a hilltop overlooking the main square of Panjim. It is easily accessible by road from any part of the city. The nearest bus stand is about 500 meters away from the church. The nearest railway station is Karmali, about 12 kilometers away. The nearest airport is Dabolim, about 30 kilometers away.
Timing/Entry Fees Immaculate Conception Church
The church is open to visitors every day from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM. There is no entry fee for visiting the church. However, visitors are expected to dress modestly and maintain silence inside the church. Photography is allowed outside the church, but not inside.
How to Reach Immaculate Conception Church
There are various modes of transport available to reach the church from different parts of Goa. You can take a bus, taxi, auto-rickshaw or motorcycle taxi to reach the church. You can also rent a car, bike or scooter to explore the city at your own pace. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also walk up the hill to reach the church.
Things to Do/Must See Immaculate Conception Church
The Immaculate Conception Church is a stunning example of Portuguese Baroque architecture. The white facade of the church contrasts with the blue sky and the green surroundings. The church has a double flight of stairs that zigzag up to the main entrance. The stairs are decorated with statues of saints and angels.
The main attraction of the church is the bell tower that houses the second largest bell in Goa. The bell was originally from the Augustinian Monastery in Old Goa, but was moved here after the monastery was destroyed. The bell weighs about 2,250 kilograms and has a diameter of 1.9 meters.
The interior of the church is equally impressive. The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, who is depicted holding a serpent under her feet. The altar is adorned with gold and silver ornaments and has a large crystal chandelier hanging above it. There are four side altars dedicated to St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Francis Xavier and St. Michael.
The church also has a museum that displays various religious artifacts, paintings and sculptures related to the history of the church and Goa. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Significance of Immaculate Conception Church
The Immaculate Conception Church is one of the oldest churches in Goa and has a special significance for the Goan Catholics. It was originally built as a chapel in 1541 to serve the Portuguese sailors who landed here for trade and conquest. It was later expanded into a church in 1609 and became a parish in 1600.
The church is also associated with various legends and miracles. One of them is that when Panjim was attacked by Marathas in 1759, the church bells rang by themselves to alert the people and save them from danger. Another legend is that when there was a drought in Goa in 1762, a procession of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception was held and it rained immediately after.
The church also celebrates various festivals throughout the year. The most important one is the feast of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception on December 8th. On this day, thousands of devotees flock to the church to attend mass and seek blessings. The church is also illuminated with colorful lights and fireworks at night.
FAQ’s
- Q: How old is the Immaculate Conception Church?
- A: The Immaculate Conception Church was built in 1541 as a chapel and later expanded into a church in 1609.
- Q: What is the style of architecture of the Immaculate Conception Church?
- A: The Immaculate Conception Church is built in Portuguese Baroque style with white walls and ornate decorations.
- Q: What is the name of the bell in the Immaculate Conception Church?
- A: The bell in the Immaculate Conception Church is called the Golden Bell and it is the second largest bell in Goa.
- Q: What are the timings of mass at the Immaculate Conception Church?
- A: The timings of mass at the Immaculate Conception Church are as follows:
- Weekdays: 7:00 AM (Konkani), 8:00 AM (English), 6:00 PM (Konkani)
- Sundays: 7:00 AM (Konkani), 8:15 AM (English), 9:30 AM (Children’s mass), 10:30 AM (Portuguese), 5:30 PM (Konkani)
Conclusion
The Immaculate Conception Church is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and history of Goa’s culture and religion. It is not only a place of worship, but also a place of wonder and awe. Whether you visit it during the day or night, you will be mesmerized by its charm and grace.
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