Chapel Of Saint Sebastian, Goa

Built in the early 19th century, the Chapel of St Sebastian marks an important attraction in Fontainhas, Goa. The pristine white structure is dedicated to St. Sebastian who treated the ones affected by plague and other diseases. The church houses a crucifix where one can find Christ's eyes are open for striking fear into the minds and hearts of the wrongdoers. The church sees many visitors celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Livrament.

History

The Chapel of St Sebastian is a popular tourist attraction in Goa, built-in 1818. This chapel is dedicated to St. Sebastian. In earlier days, people were troubled with the disease of pests and plagues, which was very frequent in the Salcette area. They turned for help to St Sebastian who treated them through his mediation and miraculous interventions.

Architecture

This chapel has a small nave with an adjoining narrow corridor with a staircase leading to the choir. This whitewashed church has a striking crucifix that originally stood in the Palace of Inquisition in Old Goa. In the crucifix, Christ's eyes are opened. Locals say that the crucifix adorning this church is magical and has the power to punish troublemakers and reward good people.
The Inquisition was set up in Goa in 1560. The crucifix was later moved to the Adil Shah´s Palace or the Secretariat until the Viceroys moved to a new residence at Cabo when it was brought to St Sebastian Chapel. The Chapel also houses a statue of the Virgin Mary, two marquetry chests, and three elaborately carved screens from a church in Diu, which once formed part of the colony of Goa.