Church Of Our Lady of the Rosary

One of the UNESCO world heritage sites, Old Goa is well known for its affluent structures and churches from the colonial days. In the area, on the top of the Holy Hill, lies the Church of our Lady of the Rosary. It is one of the oldest churches built by the Portuguese in Goa around the 16th century. This imposing structure is built in the image of a fortress, with a striking view of the Mandovi river and Divar Island. The Church of our Lady of the Rosary, is beautiful, but simple, and is very well maintained with gardens surrounding from all the four sides. The church holds a great historical significance of the colonial era, which makes it an attractive site to visit.

History:

The Church of our Lady the Rosary, was commissioned at the spot where, the Portuguese leader, Alfonso de Albuquerque had defeated the Sultan of Bijapur in the year 1510. It took around six years for the completion of the church, which began from 1544 and from the beginning, the care has been entrusted to the Franciscans. It is believed that it is this church, where St Francis Xavier gave his sermons, every evening. This church is the oldest and complete, building to remain in Old Goa.

Architecture:

The church is the sample of the Manueline style of architecture, it is a blend between Gothic and Rennaissance architecture. It is the signature design of the Portugal of that time. It is built out of lateral blocks and plastered with a mortar of lime. The plain exterior of the church stands in contrast to the elaborate embellishments of the interiors. It has a distinctive two leveled portico, and the façade has round towers on either side. The roof of the church is supported by wooden beams and above is the choir gallery.. There are two chapels and three altars beside the church, and the main altar is dedicated to Nossa Senhora de Rozario ( Our Lady of the Rosary). On the right of the main altar is the monument in commemoration of Dona Catarina, wife of the viceroy. On detailed exploration of the church interior, one can come across the hint of other religions in the decorations. The magnificence of the structure appeals most of the Goa visitors to the spot.

Location and Access:

The church of Our Lady of the Rosary is located near the Basilica of Dom Jesus, on the west side of the Holy Hill. You can easily access the spot once you reach Old Goa from the capital, Panaji. It just takes 15 - 20 minutes drive by bus or taxi, the ride ends at the Basilica. From this point, auto, taxis or even rickshaws are available that will directly take you to the church.

Attraction:

Apart from the ancient architecture, there is one more thing which acts as a major attraction of this place. This is the feast which is organized by the church every year in the month of November. During this time, traditional processions are organized and church is painted. The feast also includes grand fireworks, dance performances, Konkani concerts and fashion shows.