The Church of St Francis of Assisi in Goa is a true masterpiece of stunning architecture and intricate carvings. And as if that wasn’t enough, it also boasts an adjoining archaeological museum that adds to the charm and intrigue.
This church was built in the 16th century by Fransican monks. When the original structure started to decay, a new church was built in 1665 that retained the Portuguese-Manueline style of the old portal.
The façade of the church is an interesting mix of Tuscan and Portuguese-Manueline style, with the portal being Manueline since it was retained from the older structure. You’ll notice the distinctive façade flanked by octagonal towers and a small niche that houses the statue of Our Lady of Miracles brought from Jaffna in Sri Lanka.
Inside the church, you’ll find statues of St. Francis of Assisi and Jesus on the altar, Baroque and Corinthian carvings on the altar itself, and beautiful wood paintings depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi. The interior walls also feature paintings depicting scenes from the Bible and frescoes with floral decorations.
Don’t forget to visit the archaeological museum adjoining the church. It’s one of the prime attractions of this popular church in Goa. The museum is open every day except Sunday mornings.
To reach the Church of St Francis of Assisi, you can easily get a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from Panaji. It’s around 11 km away via Ponte de Linhares Causeway.