Bascilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa was built in 1605. It is a popular pilgrimage site in Goa. Visitors come from all over India, and also from abroad. The Bascilica of Bom Jesus is now a World Heritage Monument. ‘Bom Jesus’ means Infant Jesus or Good Jesus. This is also unique for being the only church in Old Goa which is not plastered on the outside. The lime plaster was stripped off by a zealous Portuguese conservationist in 1950.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus houses an array of architectural pieces in wood, stone, gold and granite. The Basilica of Bom Jesus also houses the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier. St Francis Xavier, patron saint of Goa, died on December 2, 1552, while on a sea voyage to China. Honoring his final wishes, his mortal remains were transferred to Goa in 1553. While transferring his remains, the saint's body was discovered to be as fresh as it had been on the day of the burial. This miraculous phenomenon continues to attract pilgrims from far and wide to pay their homage. The Exposition or public viewing of his body takes place every ten years.

St. Francis Xavier is believed to be a protector. It is said that he protected all the Portuguese Governor Generals who handed over their symbols of office. The Saint is even said to have miraculous healing powers – which is said to have been experienced by the erstwhile Nizam of Hyderabad when he came for the Exposition in 1878.