Location : Panaji city, North Goa

Significance : Dedicated to Mother Mary

Festivals  : Feast of the Immaculate Conception in December every year.

Do you wish to make your Goa vacation a memorable one? Then don’t miss the Church of Mary Immaculate Conception. This church is one of the earliest churches of Goa and was established in 1541. The prime attraction of this Church is the great bell. It is known as bell of inquisition and it is the second largest bell in the world. Previously this bell was kept in the Church of Our Lady Grace in Aguada (Old Goa). Later, in 1841 this bell was moved to the Church of Mary Immaculate Conception.

Other things to see :

The interior of this church is relatively simple in terms of design. However, one can get to see the heavily gilded and finely carved altars.

The marble statues, one of St. Peter’s and the other of St. Paul’s, are a must see by tourists.

The backdrop of the heavily designed altar is elaborately designed. The main altar is flanked by two gilded and carved altars. Both these altars are marvelously decorated. The designs are uncomplicated and defined, which is a good instance of that era.

A Chapel of St. Francis Xavier has been placed in the Church of Mary Immaculate Conception. You can see this Chapel at the south of the main altar.

The splendor of this church can be seen only after evening. Just after sunset, the church transforms into a radiant monument as it is lit up with innumerable small electric bulbs. The gleaming church set against the inky sky, looks heavenly.

Best times to visit Church of Mary Immaculate?

Apart from the night time, there are other times when you can take utmost pleasure in visiting this church. The feast days of the church are famous which is held during the month of May to celebrate Our lady of Fatima. This feast is celebrated every year in Panjim and Margao during the 8th day of December. You can feel the euphoric mood of Goa in Panjim where a 3 day fete is organized to celebrate the feast. You can pick a few pieces of knickknacks which will serve as a memento of your Goa visit.