Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, Catholic church on Monte Santo hill, Old Goa, India
The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary is a place of worship located on Monte Santo hill in Old Goa with a three-story facade, cylindrical buttresses, and distinct Gothic and Manueline architectural features throughout. The building combines European design styles with local craftsmanship visible on its exterior.
The church was commissioned between 1544 and 1547 by governor Afonso de Albuquerque following Portugal's confirmation of control over Goa. The building was created as part of establishing Portuguese presence and religious influence in the region.
The church displays Portuguese decorative elements and the tomb of Garcia de Sa with his wife inside, visible to visitors today. These details reflect the lasting connection between Portugal and Goa through art and family memory.
The church is accessible daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM without entrance fees and allows climbing of the southern tower for river views. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for the stairs and take the climbs at a gentle pace.
The exterior walls feature Indian-style manual designs and rope-twist decorations that represent Portuguese maritime voyages. This blend of European and local craftsmanship makes the building a distinctive example of cultural mixing.
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