Se Cathedral Church

About Se Cathedral Church Goa

The largest church in Asia, Se Cathedral is clearly the top tourist attraction in Goa. Known for its impressive interiors, the mosaic work and the Golden Bell, which is the largest in Goa and one of the largest in the world, Se Cathedral is located in Old Goa. The 17th Century Roman Catholic church is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria and is the cathedral of Archbishop of Goa. It is also one of the churches that has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

History of Se Cathedral

Se Cathedral was built to commemorate the victory of Portuguese under Afonso Albuquerque over the Muslim army. The day when the Portuguese won was the feast day of St. Catherine of Alexandria. The construction of the church began in 1552 and completed in 1652. The church started to build during the reign of King Dom Sebastiao.

Architecture of Se Cathedral

Se Cathedral is built in Portuguese-Manueline Style which was quite popular in the 16th century and had influence of Late Gothic Architecture with Spanish Plateresque style, Mudejar, Flemish architecture and Italian Urban design. The architecture of its exterior is in Tuscan style which is famed for its plain appearance and simplicity.

Major Highlights of Se Cathedral

• The Golden Bell, Goa’s largest and one of the largest in the world.
• The baptismal font that was also used by St. Francis Xavier.
• The main altar with gilded reredos that depict scenes from the life and martyrdom of St. Catherine.
• The Chapel of the Cross of Miracles where it is believed vision of Jesus was seen on a plain cross in 1919.
• The statuary and paintings of St Francis Xavier, St Ignatius of Loyola, St Peter, St Paul, and St Christopher.
• The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament for its skillfully carved and gilded ceiling and wall.
• The Archaeological Museum.

How to Reach Se Cathedral?

Se Cathedral is located in Old Goa and is only 11 km from Panaji. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available for Se Cathedral from Panaji.