Thursday 13 October 2016

Cultures Of Goa

2. Se Cathedral

Se Cathedral de Santa Catarina which is also known as Se Cathedral is located in Old Goa. This church is one of the largest in India and is also the most popular churches of Goa. This Cathedral was built with a purpose. And the purpose was to celebrate the victory of Afonso, who was a Portuguese ruler after he captured a Goan city in 1510. The day of the victory was also the feat of Saint Catherine and the Cathedral was thus dedicated to her.
This Church had originally two towers, out of which one was destroyed never to be built again. Se Cathedral was also gifted a Golden Rose which the Popes of Churches have always blessed and considered as a token of respect and devotion. This gold ornament is places on the tomb of Francis Xavier.
Se Cathedral has a magnificent Portuguese- Manueline architectural style. The interiors have a Corinthian style while the exteriors display a perfect Tuscan style of architecture. Se cathedral stands tall at 250 feet and the front structur eitseld if 115 feet high. The biggest attraction point of this church is the Golden Bell which is also the largest in the state. Located in Velha, this church is open all days of the week and they do not have any restrictions on photography. You can click all you want and also take a walking tour of this church.
On your walking tour you will also find numerous ancient paintings, especially in the altar that was made in dedication to Catherine of Alexandria. And if the stories are anything to go by, it is also said that a version of Christ had appeared in the Chapel that is situated on the right of this church. This occurred in 1919. You can take a walking tour that is arranged by locals too. Do not miss out on visiting this one.

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