Church Of St Augustine
The Church of St Augustine, once an imposing church, is now in ruins but is still a must-see in Goa due to its rich history. The Church was named after Our Lady of Grace. The most notable of its downfalls is a lofty tower that stands its ground. San Agustin Church was once Goa's largest Church, but after it was abandoned, the structure began deteriorating. UNESCO designated the Church as a World Heritage Site in 1986. It is also the archaeological site where Queen Ketevan of Georgia's remains were discovered.
History Of The Church Of St Augustine:
According to the Church of St Augustine's history, construction began in 1597 and was completed in 1602. The Augustinian order constructed the Church. The Augustinians were expelled from Goa in 1835, resulting in the closure of the St Augustine church. The main vault of the Church collapsed in 1846, and the convent gradually decayed.
Architecture Of the Church Of St Augustine:
The tower, which still stands today, is four stories tall and made of laterite. The bell that used to ring here was moved to Fort Aguada and then to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. The Church's original structure included eight chapels, four altars, and a convent. The convent had three levels, two cloisters, numerous corridors, galleries, and pillars.
How To Get To St Augustine's Church:
St Augustine's City of God is about 10 kilometres from Panaji via the Ponte de Linhares Causeway. One can easily take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from Panaji to the Church of St Augustine.
The Augustinian friars are credited with constructing the Church and Monastery of St Augustine in 1602. The Church's construction, which began in 1597 and was completed in 1602, took nearly 400 years. The designer of the Church is unknown, but it is thought to be of Italian origin. To know more about St Augustine's confessions, contact Sea Water Sports.
The tower, part of the Church frontage, is a major landmark with an impressive height of 46m. This is one of the Church's four towers. There are also eight chapels, four altars, and a large monastery with various cells. Although only the ruins remain, it makes for an interesting visit.
However, due to the Portuguese government's authoritarian policies, this Church was abandoned in 1835. Since then, neglectsoult and the Church's maintenance have suffered greatly. The deterioration of the Church began in 1842 with the collapse of its vault, which was quickly followed by the decay of the entire structure. The façade, on the other hand, was in good condition.
However, misfortune struck this beautiful example of architecture in 1931 when a portion of the façade and half of the tower collapsed. Another section of the Church collapsed in 1938. Even though only half of the building remains after various stages of deterioration, it is still visited by hordes of tourists who come to see its remarkable beauty.
In 1871, the massive bell that once adorned the tower was relocated to the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. This Church can be found in Panjim.
What Can Tourists See In A Place That Only Rumbles And Crumbles:
The ASI (Archeological Survey of India) has created a virtual reality frame that recreates the Church's façade based on drawings and ancient material. The structure would show the side of the Church in correspondence to the standing pillar based on the viewers' focus.
Explore the ruins and bask in the monument's former glory.
Visit the Christian art museum, which is located near the ruin site. The excavated artefacts from this site can be found here.
Walk through the ruins and read the banners on the existing walls that explain the Church's history.
Enjoy cultural celebrations by visiting the Church during the Ketevan world sacred music festival.
St. Augustine Church was constructed using the Augustinian Friars in the early seventeenth century. Although in ruins, the church tower stands 46 metres tall. The Church, in its entirety, was considered one of the biggest churches within the kingdom, and the building is a well-known landmark. Its irresistible attraction draws record fans and is a monument of historical significance within the country.
Places To Visit Near St. Augustine Church:
Basilica of Bom Jesus:
Located in Old Goa, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India's most revered Christian shrines. It houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier and features stunning Baroque architecture.
Se Cathedral:
Adjacent to the Basilica of Bom Jesus is the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. Known for its Portuguese-Gothic architecture, it houses the famous Golden Bell, known for its rich sound.
Archaeological Museum of Goa:
Situated in Old Goa, the Archaeological Museum offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and heritage. It showcases artefacts, sculptures, and exhibits that depict the evolution of Goa from ancient times to the present.
Fontainhas:
Located in the capital city of Panaji, Fontainhas is a charming Latin Quarter known for its vibrant and colourful Portuguese-style houses. Strolling through its narrow streets gives you a sense of the colonial era and offers opportunities to explore art galleries, boutiques, and local cafes.
Miramar Beach:
Situated near Panaji, Miramar Beach is popular for leisurely walks and relaxation. With its golden sands, palm trees, and stunning views of the Arabian Sea, it's a great place to unwind and enjoy the coastal beauty.
Reis Magos Fort: Located on the northern bank of the Mandovi River, Reis Magos Fort is a well-preserved structure that offers panoramic views of the river and the surrounding landscape. It also houses a museum that showcases the cultural heritage of Goa.
Anjuna Beach:
Known for its vibrant nightlife and flea market, Anjuna Beach is a must-visit destination for partygoers and shopaholics. The beach also offers opportunities for water sports, including parasailing and jet skiing.
Dudhsagar Falls:
Located on the border of Goa and Karnataka, Dudhsagar Falls is a majestic waterfall that cascades down from around 310 meters. It's a popular spot for trekking and enjoying the region's natural beauty.
These are just a few attractions near the Church of St. Augustine in Goa. Whether interested in history, architecture, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, Goa offers diverse experiences to suit every traveller's interests.
Adventure Activities Near Church Of St Augustine:
Water Sports at Calangute Beach:
Calangute Beach located a short distance from the Church, is a hub for water sports. You can try activities like jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and bumper rides for an adrenaline rush.
Scuba Diving at Grande Island:
Head to Grande Island, located off the coast of Vasco da Gama, for an unforgettable scuba diving experience. Explore the vibrant coral reefs, encounter exotic marine life, and witness the underwater beauty of the Arabian Sea.
Kayaking in the backwaters:
Explore the tranquil backwaters of Goa on a kayaking tour. Paddle through the narrow canals, mangrove forests, and serene waterways, immersing yourself in the region's natural beauty.
Trekking in the Western Ghats:
The Western Ghats surrounding Goa offer fantastic trekking opportunities. You can embark on treks to Tambdi Surla Waterfalls, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, and Dudhsagar Falls, experiencing the lush greenery and stunning vistas.
Wildlife Safari at Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary:
Located in the eastern part of Goa, the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna. Embark on a thrilling wildlife safari, spot various animal species, and enjoy the serenity of the sanctuary.
ATV Rides in Anjuna:
Anjuna, known for its vibrant nightlife, also offers exciting ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) rides. Hop on a quad bike and navigate through rugged terrains, dirt trails, and scenic landscapes, enjoying the thrill of off-roading.
Jet Skiing in Baga:
Baga Beach is another popular spot for adventure activities in Goa. Try jet skiing and feel the rush as you zoom across the waves of the Arabian Sea.
Paragliding in Arambol:
Head to Arambol Beach and experience the thrill of paragliding. Soar high above the coastline, enjoying the panoramic beach and sea views.
These are just a few examples of adventure activities near the Church of St. Augustine in Goa. Whether you're into water sports, trekking, wildlife, or aerial adventures, Goa offers something for every adventure enthusiast.
Nearby Places
FAQ
Q.1 How can one reach the Church of St. Augustine in Goa?
Ans One can book private cabs, rental cars, or bikes from various parts of Goa to reach this St. Augustine in Goa church.
Q.2 What is the entry fee to visit the Church of St. Augustine in Goa?
Ans There is no entry fee to visit this beautiful and peaceful Church of St. Augustine in Goa.
Q.3 What is the best time to visit this Church of St. Augustine in Goa?
Ans During the cool and dry climate of winter, that is, November to February is the best time to visit the Church of St. Augustine in Goa.
Q.4 Which are the places to visit near the Church of St. Augustine in Goa?
Ans The Archaeological Museum, Church of St Francis of Assisi, Se Cathedral, Goa, Casino Pride, Fontainhas, and many more places are nearby that one can visit while visiting the Church St. Augustine in Goa.
Q.5 What are the timings to visit the Church of St. Augustine in Goa?
Ans Accept weekend it is kept open from 6:30 am to 12:45 pm and 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm.