Classic white Baroque architecture blended with Portuguese flavours and dash of Goan touch; the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church is an excellent structure standing proudly on the Church Square Panaji.
The church could be easily spotted amidst the colourful buildings reflecting the Portuguese roots in the land of beaches. One can hire a cab or self drive through the neat streets of Goa to reach the beautiful church.
The massive white structure has zig-zag staircases to let you inside the church’s prayer hall. You can offer your silent prayers to the Lady of the Immaculate Conception and also adore the architecture and design of the church, along with the second-largest bell hanging on the top.
The top area forms a beautiful crown on the head of the church, which is often referred to as the crown of Panaji. Make sure you visit here to capture the beauty and simplicity of Goa and its vibes.
On the street, you can buy some souvenirs to take home or munch on some Goan cuisines and street food. You may even like to talk to the locals as they are adorable and always ready to help. It would be a great deal for you to explore the buried history of Goa along with the evolved culture of the state.
History of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church -
Originally believed to be built in the year 1541, the chapel was used by the Portuguese sailors sailing nearby. They used to visit the chapel to thank god for their safe arrival in the state.
After that, they used to continue their journey to Velha Goa. However, there are no references for the architectural style of the chapel. So, one can not compare the designs of each of the structures.
In 1609, the chapel was rebuilt as it was to be turned into a church which stands chic white today. Over time, many changes were introduced to the structure to give it the face it has today.
The zig-zag staircases were added in the year 1871 along with strengthening the pediment and belfry. It was done to install the second most massive bell called Augustinian bell.
Architecture of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church -
The Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church possesses a beautiful blend of the Portuguese and Baroque architecture with a dash of Goan style. It is a classic whitewashed structure which shines brightly under the golden sun.
The reason behind choosing the white colour is to signify the Immaculate Virgin, Mary. This colour is complemented with a little use of deep sky blue colour to signify the calmness. The prominent feature of the church are the two beautiful towers constructed on the top of the church.
There is an even taller belfry adorned with the second most massive bell of its kind called Augustinian bell. It is often referred to as the ‘crown’ of Panaji as it looks like one. You will find a very skillfully designed zig-zag staircase of 78 steps leading you to the church, which can make one of the best backgrounds for your Instagram photos.
Festivals at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church -
December 8th is the day when the locals organise the feast of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. It is the time when the church is illuminated with a distinct set of colours, and the ceiling is adorned with white and blue flowers to match the colour scheme of the church.
A nine days novena to Our Lady is served before hosting this exciting fest, which includes some particular servings and offerings to the Lady. After the feast mass is over, all the people fetch some candles from the candle sellers and light them in respect to the Lady.
This practice is followed by a grand firework display on the blank canvas of the night sky dotted with shiny stars with some engaging background music by a band. This entire festival includes a fair too, where you can get some miniature statuettes, souvenirs, garments, food and drink, to name just a few.
