Location:
Old Goa
Highlights: Unique and stunning architecture
How to Reach: One can reach St. Cajetan church by hiring local
transport like cabs, autos or buses from Panaji or any other nearby
place in Goa.
The St. Cajetan church is located in Old Goa near the Se cathedral
church. The church is visited by numerous tourists because of exquisite
architecture. This vast and strikingly beautiful church has been
constructed on the primary design of the Basilica of St. Peter located
in Rome. The architectural style is basically Corinthian in nature and
is used generously inside as well outside the church. The Saint Cajetan
church of India was originally named as Church of Our Lady of Divine
Providence.
The church has been constructed using laterite blocks and has been
plastered with lime. The stunning altars are golden and are decorated
with lovely carvings in the Baroque style. The architectural style of
the temple is very famous all over the world and never fails to amuse
tourists who visit this place. Inside the church, you will find three
altars at the left that are dedicated to Holy family of Our Lady of
Piety and St. Clare. On your right, you will find the altars of St.
Cajetan, St. John and St. Agnes.
The altar dedicated to St. Cajetan is the largest in the church. A
wooden platform emerges from one of the docks and is beautifully adorned
and decorated. There is a well in the premises of the church that is
very old. The presence of this well has made many historians speculate
that there was a Hindu temple at this site. The temple might have been
destroyed during the time of invasion. Some others believe that the well
was planned by the architect in order to provide stability to the
structure.