Tomb of St. Francis Xavier Entry Fee
- No entry fee
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Tomb of St. Francis Xavier Address: Old Goa Road, Old Goa, Goa, 403402, India
The Tomb of St. Francis Xavier is a remarkable fusion of spiritual devotion and architectural mastery. This Spanish Jesuit missionary is known for his pivotal role in spreading Christianity throughout Asia. And his tomb in Goa draws pilgrims and tourists from across the globe.
This marble tomb was gifted by the Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo III de Medici. It’s a masterpiece of craftsmanship divided into three parts: the altar, the mausoleum, and the silver casket. The mausoleum was designed by the distinguished Florentine sculptor Giovanni Battista Foggini.
It’s housed in the Basilica of Bom Jesus Church in Old Goa, and it’s a veritable pilgrimage for Catholics. Every ten years, the church becomes the centre of a grand celebration as the sacred body of St. Francis Xavier is displayed to the public. Due to its cultural and historical significance, it’s also designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History of St. Francis Xavier’s Tomb
The history of St. Francis Xavier’s Tomb in Goa is a fascinating journey that began with his death on the island of Sancian in China. He died in 1552, and his Chinese friend Antonio de Santa Fe buried him there in a coffin made of wood.
His body was later exhumed and found to be miraculously preserved. It was then transported to Malacca, where it was buried again. Later, the body was secretly moved to Goa (in 1554). It was received with great reverence and placed in St. Paul’s College. Eventually, it was moved to the Basilica of Bom Jesus in 1622. The body was put in its current mausoleum in 1698, and it has been attracting pilgrims worldwide since.
Things to do at Tomb of St. Francis Xavier Goa
1. Visiting the Tomb of St. Francis Xavier – The ornate tomb of St. Francis Xavier was a gift from Grand Duke Cosimo III of Tuscany. The silver casket containing the saint’s remains is a masterpiece of Italian and Indian artistry, recently restored to its full glory. It’s on the south side of the Basilica’s transept. While the remains aren’t open to the public, you can still see the tomb and its intricate details.
2. Exploring the Basilica of Bom Jesus – The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO Heritage Site that has been housing the relics of St. Francis Xavier for the past four centuries. Although this tomb is the centerpiece of the church, the building is an architectural marvel, showcasing the exquisite Baroque design of that era. It has stunning frescoes, intricate woodwork and beautiful paintings throughout the hall.
3. Participating in religious ceremonies – The church comes alive during religious events, particularly the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, held annually on December 3rd. This celebration is preceded by a nine-day devotional novena, open-air Masses and joyful festivities. Every ten years, the church also hosts the Exposition, in which the saint’s body is displayed and carried out in procession through Old Goa.
St. Francis Xavier’s Tomb Timings and Entry Fees
The tomb is in the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which is open from 9 AM to 6.30 PM. It’s best to visit it during winter, from November to February, when the temperature is the most pleasant. It takes only around an hour to explore the premises.
Image Gallery of Tomb of St. Francis Xavier Goa
The entry is free for everyone.
How to reach the Tomb of St. Francis Xavier Goa?
St. Francis Xavier’s Tomb is in Old Goa, 35 km from Madgaon railway station and 30 km from Margao bus terminal. From the airport in Dabolim, it’s around 25 km away.
Now, here is how to reach the tomb –
By bus – Buses to Old Goa are regularly available from many parts of Goa. The bus stop is only a few meters from the tomb.
By bike – Renting a bike is a convenient way to visit the church and the tomb. These bikes and mopeds are easily available for hourly hires in Goa.
By taxi/cab – A taxi/cab is the best way to visit the Tomb of St. Francis Xavier Goa. You can hire a cab from the top car rentals in Goa to visit the tomb and nearby tourist places.
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