Basilica of Bom Jesus
The Basilica of Bom Jesus, meaning Good or Holy Jesus, stands in Old Goa, the former capital of Portuguese India, as one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Asia. Built between 1594 and 1605, its weathered laterite facade and richly gilded interior altarpiece reflect the wealth and missionary zeal of the Portuguese empire at its height.
The basilica is above all a pilgrimage center because it enshrines the mortal remains of Saint Francis Xavier, the pioneering Jesuit missionary who evangelized across Asia in the sixteenth century. His body, regarded by the faithful as miraculously incorrupt, lies in an ornate silver casket atop an elaborate marble and jasper mausoleum, and is displayed to the public during solemn expositions held roughly every ten years.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986 as part of the Churches and Convents of Goa, the basilica continues to function as an active Catholic church drawing both devotees and tourists. Its plain, sun-baked exterior gives little hint of the opulent woodwork, paintings, and devotional treasures within.
- Location
- 15.5009, 73.9115
- Local time
- 04:07 (Asia/Kolkata)
🕘 Visiting hours
| Mon–Sat | 09:00–18:30 |
| Sun | 10:30–18:30 |
Inner sanctum closed on public holidays; free entry
✨ Saints & blessed venerated here
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Saint Francis Xavier Saint
His incorrupt relics are enshrined in the silver casket and mausoleum here; the basilica's chief draw
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Jesus Christ (Bom Jesus / Holy Infant Jesus) Saint
Basilica dedicated to 'Bom Jesus' (Good/Infant Jesus)
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Saint Ignatius of Loyola Saint
Jesuit founder; the great gilded main retable is dedicated to him
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Saint Anthony of Padua Saint
Venerated with an altar in the basilica
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Saint Michael the Archangel Saint
Side altar dedicated to St Michael
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Our Lady (Virgin Mary) Saint
Venerated in side altars/devotions of the basilica
Care & donations
Society of Jesus (Jesuits), Archdiocese of Goa and Daman
Free entry; donations accepted
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