Tag: Old Goa

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No mall in Old Goa: Goa Tourism clarifies development plans

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Panaji, March 24, 2025 : The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, convened a press conference today to address public concerns and provide clarity regarding the ongoing development project in Old Goa under the Central Scheme PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive).

The conference was chaired by Director of Tourism, Shri. Kedar Naik; Dr. Kishore Raghubans, Assistant Superintending Archaeologist, ASI; Dr. M. P. Balan, Executive Engineer (North), Project cell, SPV, GTDC and others.

During the conference, Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, clarified that no mall is being constructed in the area. The project focuses solely on enhancing visitor facilities, including the development of a parking area, an information center, and improved lighting for the monument. All necessary permissions including the office of the Dy. Conservator of Forests, North Goa Division; Town and Country Planning Department(TCP) and National Monument authority (NMA) have been duly obtained, and work had commenced in accordance with the required guidelines. At present, only the site clearance process has commenced. An application for the NOC from the panchayat has been submitted, and all necessary permissions will be obtained before any construction begins.

Highlighting the project’s community involvement, Shri Naik emphasized that the Department of Tourism had engaged with all stakeholders, incorporated their feedback, and gained their confidence. However, following directives from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the work has been temporarily halted and will resume once clearance from ASI is received.

Speaking on behalf of ASI, Assistant Superintending Archaeologist Dr. Kishore Raghubans stated, “during the excavation process, cannonballs were discovered at the site. Consequently, the ASI instructed the Tourism Department to pause work to allow proper documentation through photography, drawings, and reports. This process is ongoing and is expected to take some time.”

The project is designed to enhance the visitor experience while preserving the heritage significance of the area. Key developments include the construction of a parking lot, a dedicated tourist facilitation center, and improved external lighting with streetlights in the parking area. The initiative also features monument façade illumination, E-Auto services to facilitate tourist movement, along with comfortable seating arrangements and improved signage for better navigation.

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The Sacred Relics of Saint Francis Xavier Make Their Way Back to the Basilica of Bom Jesus

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In a solemn and deeply moving ceremony, the revered relics of Saint Francis Xavier were ceremoniously transferred from the Se Cathedral Church to the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. This poignant event marked the culmination of the Exposition, a sacred ritual that takes place every decade, where the relics are put on display for the faithful to venerate.

As the relics were carefully transported in a majestic procession, devotees and pilgrims lined the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the sacred remains of the patron saint of Goa. The atmosphere was electric, filled with devotion, prayer, and reverence.

The relics, which include the saint’s mortal remains, were accompanied by priests, bishops, and other dignitaries, who prayed and sang hymns as they made their way to the Basilica. The procession was a testament to the deep faith and devotion of the people of Goa, who hold Saint Francis Xavier in the highest esteem.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the final resting place of Saint Francis Xavier, and the relics will once again be enshrined within the ornate silver casket, adorned with precious stones. The casket is a masterpiece of Goan craftsmanship and a symbol of the state’s rich cultural heritage.

The Exposition, which drew millions of devotees from across the globe, was a resounding success, with many reporting spiritual experiences and a deep sense of connection with the saint. As the relics return to their resting place, the faithful will continue to pray and seek the intercession of Saint Francis Xavier, who remains an integral part of Goa’s identity and spiritual fabric.

A Brief History of the Relics

Saint Francis Xavier, a Jesuit missionary, arrived in Goa in 1542 and spent several years spreading Christianity in the region. After his death in 1552, his body was brought back to Goa and initially buried in the College of St. Paul. In 1554, the body was transferred to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, where it has remained ever since.

Over the centuries, the relics have been the subject of great devotion, with many reporting miracles and healings. The Exposition, which takes place every decade, is a rare opportunity for the faithful to venerate the relics and seek the intercession of the saint.

A Symbol of Faith and Devotion

The transfer of the relics back to the Basilica of Bom Jesus marks the end of the Exposition, but the devotion and reverence for Saint Francis Xavier will continue unabated. The relics remain a powerful symbol of faith, hope, and redemption, inspiring generations of Goans and devotees from around the world.

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The Shillong Chamber Choir Enchants Old Goa with Their Soulful Performance

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The historic city of Old Goa was treated to a mesmerizing evening of music, art, and technology as the renowned Shillong Chamber Choir took to the stage at the lawns of Se Cathedral Church. The choir’s scintillating performance was perfectly complemented by a fascinating 3D lighting and laser show that illuminated the facade of the iconic church.

A Magical Night to Remember

The event, which was attended by music lovers and tourists alike, was a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Goa. The Shillong Chamber Choir, known for their eclectic blend of traditional and contemporary music, performed a range of songs that left the audience spellbound.

The 3D lighting and laser show, which was projected onto the facade of Se Cathedral Church, added an extra layer of magic to the evening. The stunning visuals and intricate patterns created a truly immersive experience that left the audience in awe.

A Celebration of Music, Art, and Culture

The event was a celebration of music, art, and culture, and a testament to the power of creativity and self-expression. It was a reminder that music and art have the ability to bring people together and transcend boundaries.

If you missed this incredible event, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. Take a look at our photos and videos from the evening and relive the magic of the Shillong Chamber Choir’s performance at Old Goa.

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18th Exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s Sacred relics commenced at Old Goa, India

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India: Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao invites pilgrims to prepare for Exposition of St. Francis Xavier's Relics | RVA

The 18th Exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s sacred relics is a highly anticipated event that takes place every ten years in Old Goa, India. This year, the exposition began on November 21, 2024, and will conclude on January 5, 2025 ¹.

The exposition is a momentous occasion that attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists from around the world. The event features a series of religious ceremonies, including Masses, prayer services, novenas, and processions.

Exposition Schedule:

  • Solemn Opening: November 21, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.
  • Veneration: Everyday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (except January 5, 2025)
  • Masses: Multiple Masses in Konkani and English throughout the day
  • Solemn Closing: January 5, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. ¹

The exposition is a testament to the enduring legacy of St. Francis Xavier, a renowned missionary who spent his life spreading Christianity in Asia. His relics, which are normally housed in the Basilica of Bom Jesus, are displayed for public veneration during the exposition ¹.

For more information on the exposition, including accommodation options and wheelchair facilities, please visit the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman’s website or contact them directly ¹.

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St. Cajetan Church – The Real Pearl of Goa

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Hello My Allys,

Hope you all are doing well… The previous month has been one of a hectic kind. I was on my toes continuously doing several things and Thank God! Everything went perfect. And here I am not that I am complaining but yes all but grateful for the work I did and opportunities I received. Indeed, so here I am back this Friday to feature my Favourite Travel Place. Despite everything here I am! I know delayed but hey! It’s always better to respond then to avoid the response at all. ( My friends would know this way better than anyone)

Oops. I know I speak a lot but hey! I am here so here’s my favourite travel feature for the week.

Very well aptly selected title for this beauty. Away from the regular traffic and the noisy environment, is the beautiful place of Old Goa. A place, where we find a lot of historical monuments, be it The Basilica of Bom Jesus or The Archaeological Museum. In the shadow of the other churches, the St. Cajetan Church is situated in Old Goa. A whole lot of people say “Peace of mind is attained in silence” Truly said, when one visits this particular place, one just gets carried away, with serenity and the beautiful infrastructure of this place. Just like I did, when I dropped in this place, not expecting what I would discover, the more I read, the more I fell in love with this place for the facts are outstanding.

A lil walk towards the history

St. Cajetan Church was completed way back in 1661 by the Italian friars of the order of Theatines. This church was built in lines of the Basilica of St. Peter’s in Rome. Hence, this church has a quiet different and appealing foreign touch to it. And it stands out among all the other churches in Old Goa.

How did it Get it’s name?

The church has been dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence, it’s name however finds it’s origin after the founder of Theatines, (St. Cajetan). One of the unique feature about the church is that, this is the only surviving domed church in Goa. The exterior of the church has a Corinthian style of architecture while the interiors are a blend of Mosaic – Corinthian architecture. It has a spectacular rectangular tower on the either sides, atop the façade to serve as belfry the niches below have statues of the apostles.

Another striking feature is the stunning altars in Golden and is decorated with lovely carvings in the Baroque style. The church has altogether three altars, on the either sides of the main altars. Towards the left, there’s an altar dedicated to the Holy Family, Our Lady of Piety and St. Clare, while towards the right, there’s an altar dedicated to St. John, St. Cajetan and St. Agnes. The Altar dedicated to St. Cajetan is the largest in the church. A wooden platform emerges from one of the docks and is beautifully adorned and decorated.

Did You Know?

Surprisingly, beneath the main altar, there’s a well, which may have belonged to an earlier Hindu structure. The water, in the well reflects light. Some say it’s the reflection of light from the dome, which is exactly parallel to the well. The presence of well in the church signifies that the church was constructed on a site where initially there was a Hindu temple.

The Hindu temple must have been destroyed during the time of invasion, while several others believe that the well was deliberately built in order to provide stability to the structure. St Cajetan Church has failed to gain the status of a full-fledged church, and thus, the church conducts mass only once a year. However, mass on special request are also entertained.

The architectural style of the church is mesmerising, this helped it gain immense popularity world-wide. It is generally visited regularly by several tourists, almost every year. And thus, it is truly called the real pearl of Goa.

How to Get There?

The road is simple. And when you have Google What’s the fear. Here are the map location.

Photos Will be up Shortly.

Till then, you can share your photos on the comment section below or simple share it on your social networking using #TravelwithAllycaral or #BeingAllycaral. I would love to see all those pictures coming up! Thank You. And have a wonderful weekend!