St. Catherine’s Chapel

The St. Catherine’s Chapel is a historic monument located 12 Km from the capital Panaji at Old Goa in Vela Village (North Goa), India. It was built in 1510 by Afonso de Albuquerque, the Portuguese conqueror, to commemorate his victorious entry into the city of Goa on St. Catherine’s Day. This chapel is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, “Churches and Convents of Goa”

Visiting Hours: 7:30 am to 6:00 pm.(Seven Days A Week), No Entry Fee

Dress Code: Modest Dressing

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The St. Catherin’s Chapel is a historic monument located in Old Goa, India. It was built in 1510 by Afonso de Albuquerque, the Portuguese conqueror, to commemorate his victorious entry into the city of Goa on St. Catherine’s Day. Being part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, “Churches and Convents of Goa,” adds to its significance and allure.

In 1534, Pope Paul III granted the chapel cathedral status. It was later rebuilt and enlarged in 1550 by Governor George Cabral. A stone slab was placed over the chapel’s door, describing Albuquerque’s entry into Goa and the chapel’s enlargement by Cabral.

Although the chapel is no longer functional and is rarely open to visitors, it remains an important historical and cultural landmark in Goa. It is protected by the Archeological Survey of India and is one of the oldest structures in Old Goa.

The architecture of the St. Catherine’s Chapel is characterized by Baroque style, featuring a brown and white facade. The chapel has a rectangular shape with a tower on either side and rectangular window panes in the Old Portuguese style, adorned with mica shells.

The interior of the chapel is known for its plain altar and statues of Our Lady and St. Catherine, along with various artworks and paintings depicting the story of St. Catherine of Alexandria. The Chapel of St. Catherine is a significant architectural landmark in Old Goa, reflecting the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region.

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Must Visit Nearby Attractions

1. Church of St. Francis of Assisi: Located in the same campus as the Chapel of St. Catherine, this church is known for its beautiful Manueline-style architecture and intricate carvings.
2. Se Cathedral: Also situated in the same complex, Se Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Asia and a prime example of Portuguese architecture in Goa.
3. Basilica of Bom Jesus: Although not directly adjacent, this famous church is a short distance away and houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, making it a popular pilgrimage site.
4. Archaeological Museum: Located near the Basilica of Bom Jesus, this museum showcases a collection of sculptures, inscriptions, and other artifacts from the churches and convents of Old Goa.
5. Viceroy’s Arch: Also known as the Arch of the Viceroys, this impressive monument marks the entrance to Old Goa and is a popular spot for photographs.