Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa

vahana: "Nandi (sacred bull)" sacred_colours:

• saffron
• white
• gold sacred_flowers:
• lotus
• tulasi
• jasmine sacred_flowers:
• lotus
• tulasi
• champaka sacred_trees:
• peepal
• bilva (bael)
• tulasi sacred_animals:
• Nandi (sacred bull)
• peacock
• elephant sacred_colours:
• saffron
• white
• gold vahana: "Nandi (sacred bull)" primary_scriptures:
  • title: "Skanda Purana — temple kshetra mahatmya" type: "purana" festival_dates:
• "Maha Shivaratri (Feb–Mar)"
• "Diwali (Oct–Nov)"

Basilica of Bom Jesus — Where a Saint Rests

Baroque Grandeur in the Tropics

The first minor basilica in India, built over the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, the Jesuit missionary who spread Christianity in Asia. The body, miraculously preserved, is displayed every ten years. The facade is simple Corinthian, but the interior is richly gilded in Baroque style.

The Incorruptible Saint

St. Francis Xavier's body has remained incorrupt for over 450 years, with no embalming — a phenomenon that continues to draw millions of pilgrims across faiths. The saint died on an island off China in 1552, and his body was brought to Goa the following year.

Architecture

The Basilica is a fine example of Baroque architecture adapted to the tropical climate of Goa. The altars are decorated with gold leaf and intricate woodcarvings, while the marble floor is inlaid with precious stones.