About Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa
The Basilica of Bom Jesus, consecrated in 1605, holds the remains of Saint Francis Xavier, the Jesuit missionary who traveled across Asia in the sixteenth century. His body lies in a silver casket above an elaborate marble tomb gifted by the Grand Duke of Tuscany. The church's laterite facade, left unplastered, mixes Doric, Ionic and Corinthian elements.
Bom Jesus is part of the World Heritage group of Churches and Convents of Goa, along with the nearby Se Cathedral and Church of St Francis of Assisi. Every ten years the relics are brought down for a public exposition that draws millions of pilgrims. Each December the saint's feast fills Old Goa with worshippers.
What to see
- Tomb and silver casket of Saint Francis Xavier
- Gilded baroque main altar
- Unplastered laterite facade
- Modern art gallery upstairs
- Se Cathedral across the square
Visiting Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa: practical guide
- Best time
- November to February
- Hours
- Usually 9 am to 6:30 pm; Mass daily
- Entry
- Free
- Dress code
- Shoulders and knees covered; no beachwear
- Nearest airport
- Dabolim Airport, Goa (GOI), 30 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Keep silence during Mass
- Visit early before tour buses arrive
- Combine with other Old Goa churches
Festivals and special days
- Feast of Saint Francis Xavier (3 December)
- Decennial Exposition of the relics
- Christmas
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Christianity tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Cover shoulders and knees when entering churches, cathedrals and monasteries.
- Men usually remove hats indoors, while some Orthodox churches ask women to cover their hair.
- Avoid sightseeing in the main aisle during Mass or services.
- Check whether photography and flash are allowed before taking pictures.
- Keep your voice low and switch phones to silent.
- Only receive Communion if you understand and follow that church's rules.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa?
Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa is in Old Goa, Goa, India, Asia. GPS coordinates: 15.5009, 73.9116. The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport, Goa (GOI), 30 km.
What is the best time to visit Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa?
November to February
Is there an entry fee for Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa?
Free Opening hours: Usually 9 am to 6:30 pm; Mass daily
What should I wear when visiting Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa?
Shoulders and knees covered; no beachwear
Which religion is Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa sacred to?
Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa is sacred to Christianity. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
