se cathedral chruch
Location: Se Cathedral is located in Old Goa, 9 Km from Panaji.
About Se Cathedral:
Situated in Old Goa, Se Cathedral is a monument that truly represents the royalty of Goa in the early days, during the rule of Portuguese. The grandiose structure stands as a momento of the wealth, power and fame of the Portuguese. The church is the largest church in Asia and the prestigious seat of archdiocese of Goa. Even in Portugal, no church can beat this cathedral in terms of size. One of the most sacred buildings for the Christians, Se cathedral has been declared a heritage site by UNESCO.
Architecture of the Building:
The west- facing cathedral has a Tuscan exterior with square towers flanking the 30.3 metre-high facade. One surviving tower houses the largest bell in Asia. This 17th century bell has a rather hoary past. It tolled during the infamous inquisition to announce the start of the gruesome auto da fe or Acts of Faith, when suspected heretics were dragged out of the Palace of Inquisition's dungeons across the square. The intricately-detailed Corinthian interior has huge pillars dividing the 76.2 metre-long central space from the side aisles. The Cathedral has as many as 15 altars and a grand altar dedicated to St Catherine of Alexandria. The gilded, ornate main altar hs nine carved frames and a mgnificent crucifix. The life of St Catherine of Alexandria is depicted on the panels.
Getting there:
Air:-
Dambolin Airport in Goa is the only airport in Goa. It is situated in Vasco-da-Gama, 30 Km from Old Goa. Buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws are available from Vasco as well as Panaji to Old Goa.
Rail:-
Vasco-da-Gama rail station is connected by train with the major cities of India. One can easily get taxis and buses for Old Goa.
Road:-
Panaji, the capital of Goa, is connected by road to Bangalore-598 Km, Mumbai-594 Km, Hubli-184 Km, Mangalore-371 Km, Mysore-696 Km, Kolhapur-246 Km and Pune-458 Km.
Accommodation:-
Goa has a vast option for stay. There are many luxury, star rated and budget hotels available all ovber Goa. Old Goa is also no exception. One can also opt for stay in Panaji, 10 Km from Old Goa. Government of India and Goa also have hotels and guest houses in Goa.
