Information on Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church (Goa) - History & Architecture

The church of 'Our lady of the Immaculate Conception' is situated in the capital city of Goa, Panaji. This church is as the name suggests is truly immaculate and grand in nature. This particular church is one of the oldest churches in Goa and has been in existence since the year 1540. The church existed as a chapel in the earlier years but since it's rebuilding in the year 1619, it has been converted into a church.

Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church Religious Importance

The church is primarily dedicated to the "Lady of Immaculate Conception" however it has other important religious figures installed in it. The main altar is dedicated to her however the church has two more altars dedicated to a crucified Jesus Christ and "Our lady of the Rosary". The church is the main centre of celebration for one of the most important Christian festivals in Goa .i.e. the feast of the Immaculate Conception. This celebrated with much fervour on the 8th of December during which the church is brightly lit during the night. This festival is preceded by a novena of nine days and the feast day is celebrated with masses being held throughout the day.

Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church Architecture

The architectural design of the church is a grand one and can be said to be one of the best examples of European architecture that stands till date. The church that we see today has been built on the foundation of the old chapel that existed since the year 1540. The double staircase that that rises from angled planes from the square of the church was built in the year 1870. The church is fully white washed with magnificent bell tower that still holds a bell. The bell in the tower is one of a kind and weighs an astounding 2250 kilograms. This bell is the second largest bell in Goa.

Within the church there are three altars of which the main one is dedicated to "Our Lady of Immaculate Conception". The other two altars are dedicated to Jesus who is one the right altar while on the left one "Our Lady of the Rosary" stands. The church further has two marble statues each dedicated to St. Peter and St. Paul. There is also a chapel dedicated to St. Francis Xavier in the south transept. The church also holds many inscriptions that are in Portuguese and date back to the years of 1866, 1871 and 1955.

The church is located on top of a hillock which further enhances its panoramic view of Panaji. To enter the church one need to climb a total of 100 steps that have a royal feel to it. The steps are dual steps which arise from either side of the main church courtyard.

Festival at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church

The main festival celebrated here is the feast of Immaculate Conception. This feast is held on the 8th of September and is preceded by a novena of 9 days. This feast is celebrated to rejoice in the virgin conception of Jesus Christ by Mother Mary. The festivities last throughout the night on the main day with the church being brightly lit for the whole night. There is also a small fete organised for three days in the spirit of celebration. During these three days there is sale of figurines of Mother Mary and other religious items. One the day of the feast the church holds masses all throughout the day to celebrate the virgin birth of Jesus Christ.