Picturejockey in Goa
Bom Jesus Church, Goa
It was the first church in India to be raised to the status of a minor Basilica in 1946. Construction work began in 1594 and the church was consecratedon 15th of May,1605 by the Archbishop, Dom Fr. Aleixo de Menezes.
Declared a world heritage site, Basilica of Bom Jesus stands as a fine example of Jesuit architecture. The design was inspired from St. Paul church but that church stands in ruins now. In the same compound built by Jesuits, was their Professed house. The Professed house, a double storeyed structure is made of laterite and lime plastered. Facing west, this triple storeyed structure stands 75 3/5 feet wide and 78 1/2 feet tall. The facade of Basilica of Bom Jesus is a visual delight flaunting a combination of Ionic, Doric and Corinthian styles in the columns. The ground floor has three portals, above them are three corresponding long windows and on the second floor are three circular windows. While the beautification is true Baroque style complete with curves and embellishments, the facade is adorned by pillars and carvings. But the layout is simplistic with a single nave inspired by Renaissance style. The top most part of the facade forming a quadrangle is carved in basalt to form a medallion illustrating the emblem of Society of Jesus.
