Basilica of Bom Jesus

About Basilica of Bom Jesus

Old Goa is home to one of the most significant historic and religious sites in Goa, the Basilica of Bom Jesus. The basilica was built in the late 16th century and is famous for its Baroque architecture and the tomb of St. Francis Xavier, one of the most popular Christian missionaries from Goa. The basilica was consecrated in 1605 and is regarded as one of the best examples of early Baroque architecture in India. The laterite facade, richly adorned interiors and marble flooring, as well as the rich decoration of the altars, are all characteristic attributes of Portuguese Goa art.
The basilica is part of the Churches and Convents of Goa, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also a number of important churches and monuments in the adjacent complex and the surrounding area of Old Goa, which retain traces of the Portuguese and Christian history of the region. The Basilica of Bom Jesus has become an important pilgrimage spot as well as a heritage attraction today. Its architecture, the history of Goa under the Portuguese and the historic monuments of Old Goa are all worth a visit.

Best Time to Visit Basilica of Bom Jesus

The best time to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus is from November to February, as the climate of Goa during this period is mostly favorable for visiting the basilica and the other historical sites of Old Goa.
December is an especially important month as it's the time of the annual Feast of St. Francis Xavier celebrated on December 3 at the basilica, where pilgrims and visitors converge. During this time period, the entire area around Old Goa is also quite active.
The monsoon season falls from June to September, with high rains and March to May is hot and humid. The basilica is open to visitors year-round, but cooler seasons are ideal for walking around Old Goa.