OUR LADY OF MERCES CHURCH - PANJIM
Pilgrimage
Distance (From Kadamba Bus Terminus): 3 Kms
Commonly Visited From: Kadamba Bus Terminus
Trip Duration (From Kadamba Bus Terminus, Including Travel): 30 Mins
Place Location: Merces, Panjim
Transportation Options: Cab / Auto / Rental Bike
Travel Tips: None
At a distance of 3 km from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 24.5 km from Vasco Da Gama Railway Station and 16 km from Mapusa, Our Lady of Merces Church is situated in North Goa.
The Church of Nossa Senhora das Merces also known as Our Lady of Merces Church is located at Merces part of Panjim. It was originally a chapel in 1600 under Santa Cruz Church. It was established by the Dominicans and was elevated in 1613 after separating from Santa Cruz parish. It was further extended after the suppression of ancient parish of Santa Barbara in 1885.
The Church was built in a cruciform style and oriented in the east-west direction. The facade of the church resembles the Gothic style of church architecture. It has a peculiar design with 3 bays and 3 storeys. It has a templar Cross and an opening flank. The upper façade is framed by round ribbed columns and gothic pinnacles. One can see the image of a man symbolizing a dove which depicts the 3rd person of the Holy Trinity in this church.
The big bell is mounted on the apex. The front portion of the church is beautiful with a large entrance and two small doors on both sides. In front there is Christ the King statue in marble. We also find a grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in the corner.
The Merces Saibinnichem Fest was celebrated each year on 2nd Sunday of November with great pump.
