St. Inez Church — Attraction in Goa

The origins of the church can be traced back to 1584 when it was a small chapel built by Dom Francisco d’Eca and his wife Dona Joana de Menezes. The couple donated it to the Augustinians by a deed dated 27-07-1601. A few years later in 1605, they rebuilt it to presumably a significant upgrade of the former structure. It was customary for the Portuguese to name a place after the saint on whose feast day they found, or conquered it. Did the region of Santa Inez get its name from the initial chapel that was built? Or was it the other way round. More lights needs to be shed on the origins of ‘Santa Ignes’.

Panjim was originally just a neglected ward of Taleigão. The only significant building there was the Adil Shah’s 16th century summer palace which was surrounded by a moat on the banks of the River Mandovi. The early years of Christianization in Goa saw 2 more major religious structures in and around Panjim. First, a hermitage dedicated to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception was constructed on the major hillock behind present day Fontainhas before 1541. This would later become the all famous stepped church we see today. The Taliegao church was constructed by the Dominicans in 1544.

By a royal decree dated 27th November 1606, Panjim and Santa Inez were split up from Taleigão to form separate parishes. The Santa Inez Church, in whatever form it existed at the time, was raised to the level of a parish church by the Archbishop of then, Dom Frei Aleixo de Menezes. The present day church we see was built only in 1653. It was run by the Augustinians until The Diocesan Clergy took charge in 1769. Characteristically, the church is Mannerist Neo-Roman in style, with its fluted capitals and triangular and arched pediments. The belfry rises above on the left hand side of the façade, while the opposite end of it is just a dummy wall built to make it look...

At a distance of 4 km from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 29 km from Vasco Da Gama Railway Station and 17 km from Mapusa, St. Agnes Church is situated in North Goa.

St. Agnes Church also known as Santa Inez Church situated in Santa Inez part of Panjim. It was initially a small chapel built in 1584. It was rebuilt in 1605 and one year later it was raised to a parish church by provision dated 27th November 1606.

The present Church of Santa Inez was built in 1653. At first the parish was under the charge of the Augustinians. The Augustinians worked in this Parish till 1769. The adjoining parochial residence was once the house of Canon Francisco da Cunha Souto Maior. The Archbishop of Goa lived there from 1795. The new parochial residence was built in 1986. A parish community hall was added on the top floor in 1989.

The Church building represents the Mannerist Neo-Roman style of architecture. The church features low domes, three storey towers and rococo. Main altar inside the church has plain paneling and gallery in cornice design. It has twin bell towers.

The feast of the church was celebrated on Sunday after 21st January every year with great honour. Initially Santa Inez was situated on the banks of the river Mandovi and there was a port for boarding; even today the feast of Our Lady of Ports...

Stepping onto the bustling St. Inez road, you'll find the historic St. Inez Church, a culinary experience steeped in tradition. What began as a humble chapel in 1584, founded by Dom Francisco, has since blossomed. The Augustinians, taking the reins in 1605, expanded it into a grander edifice, much like a chef refining a classic recipe.

Separated from Taleigao by royal decree in 1606, St. Inez Church was elevated to a parish church, signifying its growing prominence – much like a restaurant earning its stars. The current magnificent structure, rebuilt in 1653, showcases the elegant Mannerist Neo-Roman style, with its distinctive fluted capitals and twin bell towers, offering a feast for the eyes before you even step inside. While the Diocesan Clergy took over in 1769, the rich history remains palpable.

Don't miss the annual celebration of the Feast of St. Agnes on the Sunday after January 21st, a true highlight on the local calendar. Recent renovations have only enhanced this venerable establishment, ensuring it continues to be a beloved local institution.

Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a unique taste of Panjim, St. Inez Church offers an experience that's both historic and vibrant.

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