Basilica of Bom Jesus
The Basilica of Bom Jesus (Portuguese: Basílica do Bom Jesus; Konkani: Borea Jezuchi Bajilika) is a Catholic basilica located in Goa, in the Konkan region of India. The iconic church is a pilgrimage centre and recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The basilica is located in Old Goa, the former capital of Portuguese India, and holds the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier.
| Basilica of Bom Jesus | |
|---|---|
Basílica do Bom Jesus (Portuguese) | |
Façade of the Basilica of Bom Jesus | |
| General information | |
| Architectural style | Baroque architecture, Portuguese colonial architecture |
| Town or city | Old Goa, Goa |
| Country | India |
| Construction started | 1594 |
| Completed | 1605 |
Bom Jesus (meaning, "Good/ Infant Jesus" in Portuguese) is the name used for the Ecce Homo in countries of the Lusosphere. This Jesuit church is India's first minor basilica, and is considered to be one of the best examples of baroque architecture and Portuguese colonial architecture in India. It is one of the Seven Wonders of Portuguese Origin in the World.
Pope Pius XII raised this sanctuary to the status of basilica via the Pontifical decree “Priscam Goae” on 20 March 1946. The decree was signed and notarized by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Montini.