Church of Our Lady of the Rosary
Church of Our Lady of the Rosary things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, Goa ⛪⛱️ Historic Serenity on Holy Hill Perched majestically atop Monte Santo (Holy Hill) in Old Goa, the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary is a fascinating blend of history, architecture, and serene beauty. Constructed in 1544, this ancient church was built as a fulfillment of a vow by the Portuguese general Afonso de Albuquerque after his victorious conquest of Goa in 1510. Imagine a commander surveying his battlefield and vowing to build a church right there—talk about a strategic divine intervention! The church’s architecture is a delightful mix of Gothic and Manueline styles, with its simple yet elegant design reflecting the early Renaissance influence brought by the Portuguese. The church’s two-story portico, built with laterite and lime mortar, along with its wooden raftered roof, gives it a rustic yet grand appeal. The walls are adorned with miniature carved pillars and Portuguese inscriptions, adding to its historical charm. One of the unique aspects of this church is its connection to St. Francis Xavier, who is said to have performed the marriage ceremony of Dona Catarina and Viceroy Garcia De Sa here. This event is immortalized with a marble cenotaph inside the church, making it a significant historical landmark. For those looking to visit, the church is open every day from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, with no entry fee. It's a perfect spot to soak in some history while enjoying a panoramic view of the Mandovi River and Divar Island. If you visit in November, you might catch the annual feast, complete with traditional processions, fireworks, dance performances, and Konkani concerts. So, whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just someone looking for a peaceful retreat, the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary in Goa is a must-visit. And remember, if you hear any distant battle cries, it’s probably just Afonso de Albuquerque cheering you on from the past!
VatsalyaVatsalya
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The Church of Our Lady of Rosary is located atop the Monte Santo or the Holy Hill. The church stands on the site of Portuguese leader Alfonso de Albuquerque's victory over the armies of Bijapur Sultan in 1510. In fact the Lady of Rosary church is believed to be built by de Albuquerque as a sign of gratitude for his victory. From here it’s is beloved that the first Governor General of Goa over saw the Portuguese fight back and take charge of the land from the Muslim settler of Bijapur As a vow to the divine, Afonso De Albuquerque envisioned building a hermitage home, dedicate to the venerated Mother Of Jesus The church is an excellent example of Manueline style architecture of the early Portuguese. With windows near the roof and rounded towers, the church looks more like a fortress. The church has a two storied portico. It is built with laterite and plastered with lime mortar. The portico as well as the facade of the church has rounded towers on either side with the cross on top. The church roof is tiled and is supported by wooden rafters. The church has three alters and two chapels. The main alter is dedicated to the Lady of Rosary. There is a marble cenotaph to the right of the main alter and it commemorates the marriage of Dona Catharina with Viceroy Garcia De Sa that was performed by St. Francis Xavier. Kaazan lands which were artificial watered by creating by a barrier land between the sea and land. Then a channel was left open which would all the steady steam of water from particular point to enter deeper portions of the landmass which could then be used to irrigate the crop
Derek D'SouzaDerek D'Souza
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The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, an exquisite emblem of historical and architectural significance, stands as a testament to centuries of faith and community spirit. My visit to this remarkable church was a journey through time, offering a profound glimpse into the past while standing firmly in the present. Situated in a serene locale, the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary boasts a rich history that dates back to its foundation. Constructed during a period when religious and cultural transformations were sweeping across the region.
Mohammad RafikMohammad Rafik
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Albuquerque vowed to built the church after winning the conquest of Goa in 1510 but not built by him in his lifetime, he originally constructed a hermitage. Built later in 1544 took six years to complete. The hill is called Monte Santo(Holy Hill) . It was the earliest church that attests to the introduction of renaissance architecture. There is an altar with Indian influence in its style. You get to see the beautiful panorama of Mandovi river.
ampilli sathvikampilli sathvik
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Its a beautiful Catholic Church which was built in 15th century. Speaks about the rich cultural heritage. Not to miss, this is one of the landmarks of Goa. Located in South Goa, you have lots of churches of rich cultural heritage not to miss. They were doing renovation work way back & the senior nun was so kind when she was interacting with us. Wonderful architecture
Vijay KVijay K
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This church is in ruins currently. Very few visitors come to this church. You can click very good photos with the ruins in the backdrop. You can also see the awesome view of Mandovi River from this place and makes for a good photoshoot location. Would recommend to those offroad travellers who can go the extra mile for a great view.
Peeyoosh MaharanaPeeyoosh Maharana
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Nearby Attractions Of Church of Our Lady of the Rosary
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Se Cathedral
Church of St. Francis of Assisi
Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Goa
St. Augustine Tower
Wax World Museum
Archaeological Museum of Goa
Buttress Of The Church Of Santa Monica
Mandovi River
Relics Of St. Francis Xavier

Basilica of Bom Jesus
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Se Cathedral
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Church of St. Francis of Assisi
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Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Goa
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Nearby Restaurants Of Church of Our Lady of the Rosary
Ratnasagar Family Restaurant & Bar
Coconut Goan Fish Thali - A Goan Seafood Restaurant
Pet puja Pure Veg
Goa Streetz / A Goan Cafeteria Brasil
Krishna Sagar
The Seafood Inn
Thirumalai restaurant
Fusion Restaurant
Viva Goa
Coconut Grove

Ratnasagar Family Restaurant & Bar
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Click for details

Coconut Goan Fish Thali - A Goan Seafood Restaurant
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Pet puja Pure Veg
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Goa Streetz / A Goan Cafeteria Brasil
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Basic Info
Address
GW23+PX9, Old Goa, Goa 403402, India
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4.4
(77 reviews)
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Description
The Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rosary is a Catholic church in Doha, Qatar. It is located, along with churches of other Christian denominations, at the Religious Complex in Abu Hamour. It is the first church built in the country since the Muslim conquests in the 7th century.
attractions: Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Goa, St. Augustine Tower, Wax World Museum, Archaeological Museum of Goa, Buttress Of The Church Of Santa Monica, Mandovi River, Relics Of St. Francis Xavier, restaurants: Ratnasagar Family Restaurant & Bar, Coconut Goan Fish Thali - A Goan Seafood Restaurant, Pet puja Pure Veg, Goa Streetz / A Goan Cafeteria Brasil, Krishna Sagar, The Seafood Inn, Thirumalai restaurant, Fusion Restaurant, Viva Goa, Coconut Grove

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