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Location : Old Goa, Panjim

Built By : Italian Friars

Built In : 17th Century AD

Architectural Style : Greek & Baroque Architecture

The church of St. Cajetan is located just opposite to Se Cathedral Church. The huge and majestic Church of St. Cajetan is made of laterite blocks and plastered with lime. The façade of the church has two bell towers set on the either side. The church is designed with Cronothian columns supporting a platform over which are situated four niches that contain statues of apostles.

The Architecture of the Church of St. Cajetan :

The construction pattern of the church widely shows hints of Greek influence. The church’s main plan is based on a Greek cross. A Greek cross usually has a square central platform having four arms each of equal length. The nave of the church ends at an aisle that is marked by four huge piers. These piers form a supporting base for the central circular dome which is crowned by a lantern. The nave of the church has ribbed vaults and aisles of varying heights and they are decorated with floral designs.

Altars of Baroque Style :

There are six altars situated beside the main altar, which is dedicated to the Lady of Divine Providence. These gilded altars are richly carved in Baroque style and they have figures of angels and twisted shafts. The altars also hold canvas paintings of Italian School. Some of the canvas paintings depict scenes from the life of St. Cajetan. The niches around the vault contain statues of Saints, made out of wood.

All the six altars are dedicated to six different people. The altars on the left side of the main altar, are dedicated to the Our Lady of Piety, Holy family, and St. Clare, while the altars placed to the right are dedicated to St. Cajetan , St. John, and St. Agnes.

At the center of the church, there is a water tank or well. There are several myths regarding this well. Some people say that this well is actually the holy water tank of a temple whereas others say that this tank was built to provide greater strength to the enormous structure of the church.

The structure of this church resembles the original design of Saint Peter’s Church, which is situated in Rome.

History :

This church was built by Italian monks who were ordered by Theatines. These Theatines were sent by the Pope Urban II in order to preach Christianity in the Golconda kingdom. As these monks were not allowed to work there, they decided to settle down in Goa in 1640. In the year 1655, they obtained the church site and built the church in 17th century.

If you have decided to visit Goa, then don’t forget to visit this church which is a unique piece of architecture.