The Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a treasure-house of art, architecture and history. Its exterior, which is un-plastered, may not appear so impressive, but don’t let that fool you. Its interiors tell a completely different story.
Basilica of Bom Jesus has been built in the classic form of architecture common with Jesuits. The façade is a blend of five architectural styles: Roman, Ionic, Doric, Corinthian and Composite. Albeit the interior designs are sober, the floor is decorated with finest marble and inlaid with precious stones. The Basilica also houses a modern art gallery, the largest of its kind in Asia with paintings depicting various scenes of the Bible. A striking sight is the Tomb of St. Francis Xavier which is essentially a silver casket consisting of silver panels depicting 32 scenes from the life of the saint. The relics of St. Francis Xavier has been associated with several tales, one of which states that the body shrinks every year, and when it shrinks to nothing, will signify the end of the world.
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