THE CHURCH Pilgrimage Goa Pilgrimage

Exotic beaches, well-maintained roads, and shopping spree -- these are some of the things that come to our mind when we think of Goa. However, it takes you only a trip to Goa to realize that Goa is more than these.

For a Christian pilgrim, Goa offers several memorable experiences. Ancient churches, shrines, Bom Jesus Basilica, Se Cathedral, St Francis Xavier's relics, ... the list goes on. Goans are known for their staunch faith, and friendly and polished behaviour.

Bom Jesus Basilica, Old Goa

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is located opposite Se Cathedral at Old Goa, about 10 km from Panaji. "Bom Jesus" means "good Jesus" or "infant Jesus".

Constructed in first the decade of the 17th century, the basilica is a World Heritage Monument.

In a chapel inside the Basilica are kept the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier.

• View of Bom Jesus Basilica from Se Cathedral compound, Old Goa

• The main altar at Bom Jesus Basilica, Old Goa

Se Cathedral, Old Goa

Se Cathedral, situated opposite to the Bom Jesus Basilica, is a large and captivating Cathedral church. It has very scenic surroundings.

Rated Asia's largest church, Se Cathedral was constructed by the Portuguese in the 16th century. The Cathedral is dedicated to St Catherine of Alexandria. There are four chapels inside the Cathedral.

The decennial exposition of the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier takes place at the Se Cathedral, when the relics are carried to the Cathedral from Bom Jesus Basilica in a procession, and displayed to the public over six weeks.

The most recent exposition took place in the year 2004.

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