St. John The Baptist Church, Goa

The church of St. John the Baptist was originally built near the shore and has been shifted to its present location on top of a hill known as Monte Benaulim in the year 1956. The church has one of the best constructed and most beautiful altars with a whitewash that charms everyone to visit the place once. The church is well known for the annual feast Sao Joao too. Celebrated on June 24th, Sao Joao is one festival that is as entertaining and pompous as the Carnival. It starts as a Mass held at the church and then, the youth of Goa do something amazing; get drunk and jump into wells and streams, while singing 'Viva San Joao'.

History

The Church of St. John the Baptist is one of the most famous churches in the entire state of Goa. The church of St. John the Baptist which is situated at Monte Benaulim was originally built nearer the shore and has been shifted to this present location in the year 1956.

Architecture

The Church is popular for its Goan-Christian style of architecture. This church is very attractive and the view of this site is also excellent. The church features low domes, four-storeyed towers, and rococo. The main altar inside the church has plain paneling and a gallery in cornice design. Father Joseph Vas, who was born in Benaulim was baptized in this chapel.