Historical significance
Pope John Paul II visited Goa and held mass at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi as part of his tour of India, while Mother Teresa is said to have visited this church as well during her travels in India.
Tiepolo, one of Italy's premier painters, allegedly completed this impressive painting depicting the Assumption of Mary by adding his artistic signature touch. Additionally, its incredible artistic merit adds another layer to its already stunning visual appeal.
Church of Saint Francis of Assisi in Goa is an impressive display of Baroque architecture, constructed in 1661 and one of Goa's oldest and most aesthetically stunning churches. Inside are intricate carvings, paintings and sculptures which add beauty and magnificence.
In 1545, a Portuguese soldier found a miraculous statue of St. Francis of Assisi in a nearby forest and brought it to Church of St. Francis of Assisi in Goa where it has since been revered as the source of numerous miracles and healings.
An astonishing tale dates back to 1560, during construction of Goa's Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, an unknown cross is said to have mysteriously flown and come to rest on its bell tower, leading to widespread belief of divine intervention among many people.
Bom Jesus Church stands as one of Asia's grandest churches, boasting ornate ornaments befitting its grandeur and built of black granite with elaborate Doric and Corinthian facades crafted in meticulous detail, highly decorated ceiling, sarcophagi from notable Portuguese who were involved with religious life of Goa, as well as an altar dedicated to Infant (Bom) Jesus - making for an unparalleled architectural masterpiece!
