St Francis Xavier Church, or Basilica of Bom Jesus is a famous church in Goa, where the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier are held. This catholic church, a Jesuit church, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Portuguese word Bom Jesus means Good (or Holy) Jesus.

The entrance to Saint Francis Xavier Church in Goa, India.

St Francis Church, built in baroque architecture (Italian architectural style started in the 16th century) is the first minor basilica in India. Palaces and churches were made in this architectural style.

Society of Jesus, (the Jesuits), a male religious congregation of the Catholic Church, was founded by St. Francis Xavier along with St. Ignatius Loyola. St. Francis Xavier died on December 2, 1552, on Sancian Island. His mortal remains were first taken to Portuguese Malacca. After around two years it was shipped to Goa. Saint Xavier’s body was fresh as it was buried. It is believed that the saint has miraculous healing power.

Mausoleum inside Francis Xavier Church, where the Mortal Remains of St. Francis Xavier are kept.

St Francis Catholic church allows public viewing of St. Francis Xavier’s mortal remains once every ten years during his death anniversary. The last public viewing was in 2014, and the Next Public viewing is in 2024.

St Xaviers Church was consecrated in May 1605, for which the works began in 1594. There are paintings based on the life of St. Francis Xavier. Giovanni Battista Foggini, a 17th-century Florentine sculptor, designed the mausoleum. The mausoleum contains a silver casket that has the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.

Bom Jesus Basilica Art Gallery is situated on the upper level, overlooking the saint’s tomb at Francis Xavier church, Goa.

St Xavier Church Goa is open on all days.

How Do I Go to St Francis Xavier Church or Basilica of Bom Jesus?

Saint Francis Xavier catholic church is located in Old Goa and is accessible by public transport. Panaji, the capital of Goa is well connected by road, rail, and air to other parts of the country.