Church of Our Lady of the Rosary

The Churches and Convents of Old Goa are a group of religious monuments located in Old Goa and are a World Heritage Site.

Among the numerous churches, chapels, and cathedrals in the area, there is one particular church that is located on a hill, a short distance to the west of the other churches that stands out. This hill is called Monte Santo (Holy Hill) and the church is called the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary.

Since this particular church is a short distance away from the other churches, it feels a little secluded. However, the location offers stunning views over the adjoining Mandovi River. One can easily spend some quality time in the peace and calm of this church complex.

It’s believed to have been constructed between 1544 and 1547 by Afonso de Albuquerque in fulfillment of a vow. Even today, the building remains largely unchanged.

The beauty of the church lies in its simplicity. Back when Old Goa was the capital of Portuguese Goa (the capital was eventually shifted to Panaji in 1843), this church would have been the first one seen by a visitor coming by the river Mandovi. 

It stands as a beautiful piece of architecture, history, and heritage.