Introduction

The Church of Holy Spirit, a beautiful white façade built by the Portuguese, stands tall in the Old Market square of the buzzing commercial town of Margao in South Goa. Originally built by Jesuit missionaries in 1564, it was destroyed in 1571 only to be rebuilt in 1645. Lauded as one of the finest examples of the Indian baroque style of architecture, the outer façade is brilliantly white-washed with towers on both sides, and a central dome structure. The interior of the church is elaborately carved from floor to ceiling complete with a pipe organ, and heavily embellished altars dedicated to Immaculate Conception of Mary, St. Peter and St. Michael. Appreciate the lavish gilt crystal and stucco work, not to mention the huge cross from the late 17th century.

It is believed that to build the church, Portuguese had destroyed the Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Damodar that stood on this spot. Later, Muslim soldiers demolished the newly constructed church, which was again rebuilt and destroyed on several occasions. Since its consecration in 1675, the structure has endured the test of time.

The feast day of the church is on the 10th of June, and you can enter the building from the side entrance to the north. The old Portuguese mansions lining the front of the church around a square called Church Square (or Largo de Igrega) add to the ambience of the place. Before modern construction grew southward, the area was the centre of the town comprising Margao’s Latin Quarter. A visit to Margao in South Goa is incomplete without stopping at the quaint old Church of Holy Spirit boasting a fine baroque style.

Special Attributes

The church is one of the finest examples of the Indian baroque style.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress appropriately, avoid wearing short or revealing clothes.

Connectivity

The Margao (Madgaon) Railway station is Goa's biggest and most important railway junction positioned at the intersection of the Konkan Railway and the South Western Railway. All trains passing through Goa stop here, and it is the gateway to South Goa. Hence, Margao is used more commonly as a transit stop rather than as a tourist destination. You can move around locally by hiring a taxi or motorbike, available easily.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers, Senior Citizens

Exposure

You will be indoors

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Keep your tone low in the church, and turn your phone to silent mode.

Type of site

A 17th century church built by the Portuguese in Margao