Location of Basilica of Bom Jesus: - This old cathedral is located just 10kms from the city of Panjim at a place called Bainguinim. It takes a mere half an hour ride to reach the church. The airport at Dabolim is located 24 kms from the cathedral while the nearest railway station is Madgaon and is located 35 kms from the site. You can hire a taxi / cab from Panjim to reach the cathedral. You can also hire a motorcycle taxi if you are a solo traveler.
About Basilica of Bom Jesus: - The basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage monument. Its one of the oldest church in India and is famous for the Holy relics of Saint Francis Xavier. The cathedral rises to a phenomenal 61 feet the outer façade is simple with no plaster, the letters IHS are visible from a distance they denote “Jesus the savior” . The architectural style of the building is Baroque. St Francis Xavier was a contemporary of St Igantius Loyola who founded the Society of Jesus. The construction of the basilica was started in 1594 finally it was consecrated in 1605 making it one of the oldest Christian church in India.
History and Architecture of Basilica of Bom Jesus: - The remains of the holy ST Francis Xavier are taken out once every ten years and the devotees gather in large numbers to pay their obeisance to the holy saint. It is said that the remains of the saint are in perfect condition without any artificial treatment. The saint died in Macau China in 1552 his disciples buried him and after two months dug the grave to take his relics back to Goa but they found unharmed body of the saint, the body is today placed in Basilica of Bom Jesus. The saint lies in a silver casket on the right hand side of the main altar. The most distinguished part of architecture is the main altar crafted exquisitively from wood and painted with Golden hue. The silver casket in which the body of St. Xavier is kept was made in 17th century by a Florentine jeweler and is a master piece.
Miracles of St. Francis Xavier: - It is believed that Saint Francis Xavier has miraculous healing power so millions of devotees come to pray at Basilica of Bom Jesus. The church is a living Church where masses are held on Sundays and on week days. The catholic devotees attend masses in various Indian language like Tamil, Malyalam etc. The holy Eucharist is celebrated at the basilica of Bom Jesus. This church is the most famous church in Goa. On 2nd December every year the devotees came to see the relics of the holy saint.
Sunday Mass Timings – 8 Am to 9:15 Pm
Weekdays Mass Timings - 05:15 Pm to 7 Am
06:15 Pm to 8 Am
Opening Time of Basilica of Bom Jesus
Weekdays - 9 Am to 6:30 Pm
Sundays - 10 Am to 6:30 Pm
