Venita Gomes
The Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa is the only basilica—a Catholic structure granted special privileges by the Pope—in Goa, India’s smallest state, and it houses the sacred relics of the State's revered saint.
Goa’s beloved saint, St Francis Xavier, rests in the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Every ten years, his exposition attracts millions of visitors from around the world.
The Basilica's three-story façade showcases a blend of architectural styles, including Ionic, Doric, and Corinthian.
On the façade is the IHS symbol, derived from the Greek name for Jesus and interpreted in Latin as Iesus Hominum Salvator (Jesus, Savior of Mankind).' It also represents the Jesuit society, founded by St Ignatius of Loyola.
Interestingly, the main altar features a large statue of St Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) who founded it along with St Francis Xavier.
Interestingly, the mausoleum of St Francis Xavier was designed in Florence by Giovanni Battista Foggini and gifted by Grand Duke of Tuscany Cosimo III.
The silver casket is designed by Italian Jesuit Marcello Mastrilli and executed by Goan goldsmiths.
This basilica in Goa is one of the oldest and most beautiful, and it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.