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Goa is mainly famous for its fantastic and superbly built churches. The churches of Goa are the major tourist attractions among the people that visit this state. The churches which are built in a style which is unique in its own way are the most captivating sights to behold.
This land was ruled by Portuguese for quite a long period of time and it was prime occupation of Portuguese rulers to build churches. The architecture of churches of Goa has undergone considerable changes over years and can be classified into five distinct periods.
The Oldest church of Goa is Church of Our Lady of Rosary in Old Goa. This church is built in a typical manueline fashion. This term is derived from the name of the king Emmanuel of Portugal. This early period architecture is marked by a fine blend of Gothic and Renaissance style of architectures.
The Baroque period was the period when the church building in Goa reached a feverish pitch. Some great churches including the Basilica of Bom Jesus were constructed in this period. The architecture of this period is a fine mixture of Tuscan, Ionic, Doric, and Corianthian styles.
The Indian Baroque period is so called because of the local contribution to church building in this period. The style is identified with outer façade and the ceiling that includes various tropical motifs and flowers which is peculiar to this style.
The Rococo period is characterized by the small size of the churches in this era. This style accentuated the ornate finishing, paintings, and local motifs. This style reflects the relaxation of religious fervor of Portuguese rulers to a large extent.
From the 19th century onwards the architecture is categorized in the modern period. There are many differences in past styles and this style. This type of architecture is free of the rigid structures of the past. One fine example of such structure is Church of Nossa at Saligaon.
Most of the churches of Goa are functioning institutions which are revered by Christians and Hindus alike. Some eminent churches of Goa are Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, The Church and Convent of St. Monica, The Church of St. Francis Xavier, Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, The Convent and the Church of St. John, The Chapel Of Our Lady Of The Mount, and The Chapel Of St. Catherine. All these churches belong to different periods of architectural style. A visit to these churches is sufficient to give you an idea of the architectural specialties of each era.
These churches are astounding buildings, which make you humble. The architecture has such a grace that you will feel exhilarated. Apart from holy relevance, these places are visited mostly to appreciate the fine architectural styles. These churches of Goa give you an idea as to what heights the architectural supremacy of those bygone eras had reached. You should visit these beautiful churches at least once.
To know more about the churches of Goa go to:
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