CHURCH OF ST.JOHN THE BAPTIST - BENAULIM
Pilgrimage
Distance (From Panjim (Goa)): 35 Kms
Commonly Visited From: Colva Beach (1.9 Kms)
Trip Duration (From Colva Beach , Including Travel): 30 Mins - 1 Hr
Place Location: Near Colva Beach
Transportation Options: Cab / Auto / Rental Bike
Travel Tips: This place is usually visited from Colva Beach (1.9 Kms).
At a distance of 35 km from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 27 km from Vasco Da Gama Railway Station and 5 km from Margao Railway Station, St John the Baptist Church is located 4 km from Benaulim beach in South Goa.
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.
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. Main altar inside the church has plain paneling and gallery in cornice design. Father Joseph Vas, who was born in Benaulim was baptised in this chapel.
Feast of St John or Sao Joao is celebrated on June 24 every year. People especially young men wear crowns of leaves and fruits and around the area singing for gifts. The festivities include the act of young men jumping into the wells. This act commemorates the movement of the child St John in his mother's womb before birth.
This celebration brings a lot of fun and enjoyment. Sao Joao's celebration has continued for about 175 years. As per the Holy Bible's story, the feast originated when Mother Mary who was bearing Jesus then visited Elizabeth St John the Baptist's mother while he was in his mother's womb. This occasion made him bound with joy. Sao Jao is mostly celebrated in north Goa.
Timings: 7 AM - 7 PM on all days.
