Our Lady Of Merces Church, Goa

The Church of Nossa Senhora das Merces also known as Our Lady of Merces Church is located at Merces part of Panjim. It was originally a chapel in 1600 under Santa Cruz Church. It was established by the Dominicans and was elevated in 1613 after separating from Santa Cruz parish. It was further extended after the suppression of the ancient parish of Santa Barbara in 1885. A monument of national heritage, it is also famous for its picturesque location looking across Charao Island on one side and Ribandar Causeway on the other. The interior of the church is stunning with a high-vaulted ceiling and handpainted sceneries.

The church is dedicated to Nossa Senhora - a Spanish Saint. It was built in the 16th century by Portuguese seamen sailing to India. They strongly believed that Penha De Franca cured them when they were affected by the plague and considered the Saint as the protector of their ships.

History

Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca is also known as Our Lady of the Rock of France. The Church gets its name from Saint Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca, a Spanish saint who is believed to have saved Portuguese sailors from a dangerous situation on their voyage to India.

The church was built in Britona on the banks of the River Mandovi in 1626, dedicated to Nossa Senhora De Penha De Franca. The church was entirely funded by a widow named Ana De Azvado, a Franciscan Tertiary. But the church was collapsed in 1651 and was then rebuilt in 1655. This beautiful church was declared a national monument in 1932.

Architecture

Our Lady of the Rock of France became famous for the miracles performed for those who made the pilgrimage. The high-vaulted ceiling and simple but beautiful interiors make the church looks amazing. The church lies on a hillock and is distinguished by the upper section of its tower is octagonal.