The impressive Churches of North Goa, are still the example of the Portuguese architecture. The lofty churches in North Goa have attracted quite a number of tourists time and time again .Some of the famous churches are as follows:
Old Goa: This church is placed at the distance of 10 km from the district headquarters. The Old Goa lies in the East of Panaji, which was founded by Adil Shah in the first decade of 16th century. They were developing it with a view to shifting their capital from Bijapur. However, Afonso de Albuquerquw made a short work on it and took it over to house the center of power of the Portuguese colonies.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: This church was built in 16th century that is the most popular and famous of all churches in Goa. The mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, which is kept in a silver casket, are enshrined here at this place. This church dedicated to Infant Jesus is now a world Heritage Monument.
Se Cathedral: This is the most imposing of all churches at Old Goa. Its vaulted interior overwhelms the visitors by sheer grandeur. This Cathedral has five bells of which one is the famous Golden bell. This is the biggest in Goa and one of the best in the World. The church is dedicated to St. Catherine.
Church of St. Francis of Assissi: The entrance and the choir of this church are in Manueline style, which is the only fragment of its kind in the East. The interior is illustrated with exquisite paintings. The Archaeological Museum is present in the adjacent convent at this place.
St. Cajetan Church: this church is built in the style of St. Peter`s Basilica in Rome.
Church of Our lady of Rasary: This is one of the earliest churches built in Goa. It bears an inscription about the conquest of Goa by Afonso de Albuquerque in 1510.
Nunnery of Santa Monica: This convent is built like a fortress, which is significant for its massive walls and structures. It is the only nunnery in Goa.
Ruins of Church of St. Augustine: Close to the Nunnery there is a lofty tower defying the pouring rains. The tower is one of the four of St. Augustine church that once stood there. This Church was perhaps the biggest church in Goa, when intact.
Viceroy`s Arch: This was one of the gates of Adil Shah`s Fort. It was renovated by Portuguese and was the gateway to Goa for Portuguese Governors. Every incoming Viceroy used to disembark at this place.
Reis Magos Church: This is placed at 7 km away from the town. The Reis Magos Church was constructed in 1555. It is one of the earliest Churches built in Goa and the first in Bardez Taluka. This is dedicated to three Magi-Kings. This Church was once the residence of all dignitaries and also a mission center of the Franciscan order. There is also a fort situated adjacent to this Church.
The Church of Mae de Deus at Saligao (Bardez): This is situated 13 km away from the district town. This was built in 1873 and is situated amidst picturesque surroundings. The holy place of the miraculous statue of Mae de Deus or Mother of God was brought from the ruins of the convent of Mae de Deus at Old Goa. This beautiful church is the finest piece of gothic style. The Church is well illuminated at night.
The Church of St. Alex at Curtorim: This is placed at 9 Km from Margao. It is one of the Oldest churches in Goa, which was built in 1597.
The Church of St. Ana at Talaulim, Ilhas: This is placed at 11 Kms away from the district. This church is dedicated to St. Ana and is a remarkable piece of ancient Christian architecture. It was built in 1695 on the right bank of Siridao River and has picturesque surroundings. The unique feature of this church is that it has hollow walls through which people could walk in secrecy for the purpose of confession.
Rachol Seminary: This is situated just off the banks of Zuari River, which is 12 kilometers from Margao in South Goa. In 1521 the Portuguese, in their customary fashion first built a church after that a prison and later in 1574-1610 a seminary to impart philosophy and theology. It is in this seminary that the museum of Christian Art is housed.
