St. Cathedral Church

Location : Old Goa

Significance : Dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria

Attractions : Architecture and giant bells

How to Reach : Local transport within the state

Dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, the Se Cathedral Church of Goa is said to be the largest in Asia. This splendid church was constructed in the 16th century by the Portuguese. The Cathedral lies to the west of the great square Terreiro de Sabaio while its portico faces the east. Climb a flight of steps to enter the beautiful courtyard of the church. The architectural style of the church is typically Portuguese followed by a  Corinthian core and a Tuscan peripheral. The dimensions of the church are 520 feet in length and 181 feet in breadth.

Initially, the facade had two towers on either side. But in 1776, the tower on the southern side collapsed. This bell tower was not built again. This gives the structure an exceptional look. The exterior of the church is plain in style yet attractive. Typical of the Tuscan institution, the style is noteworthy.

The five massive bells inside the church are its major highlights. One amongst these five is called the 'Golden Bell'. Made of an alloy of gold with some other metals, it is the largest of its kind in Goa. Its melodic tone has led to its commemoration in a Portuguese poem. Dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, the paintings displayed on both sides of the altar depict scenes from her life.