Panjim, Goa’s capital city, is full of historical buildings. The Portuguese introduced a social hierarchy that discriminated against the local population. However, they left behind impressive structures like forts, churches, and colonial buildings, which are a part of Goa’s unique identity today.

Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church is one of the interesting churches of the Portuguese era. This church isn’t just a place to pray, it’s like a storybook that tells you about Goa’s history. 

From Small Chapel to Big Church

Image from 1900 (image courtesy: Rajan Parrikar Blog)

Way back in 1541, Goa was a growing colony while Panjim was a tiny fishing village. Sailors built a little chapel there so they could pray after their long journeys at sea. Fast forward to the 1600s, as Goa’s significance flourished, so did the need for a grander structure to reflect its growing stature. By 1600, Panjim had transformed into a Parish, and in 1619, the quaint chapel was replaced by the present-day Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church.

A Mix of Styles Makes it Unique

1973 : Immaculate Conception Church (image source: memorias_de_pangim, instagram)

The Church of Our Lady Immaculate Conception looks amazing because it blends different building styles. The main part of the church is like a fancy European style called Baroque. But there are also special touches that make it look Goan. Imagine walking down the street and seeing this big white church with tall towers and a big bell. Our Lady Immaculate church, also called Pangim church, has a giant bell that used to belong to a church in Old Goa (St. Agostinho) which was later brought to Pangim in 1874. It’s super heavy, weighing 2,250 kg, and is the second-biggest bell in the entire state!

Cool Stairs Make Climbing Easy

One of the unique things about the church is the special staircase built in 1870. The main stairs on the front side have 78 steps and were modelled after a famous church in Portugal. It goes up the hill the church sits on in a zig-zag pattern. This isn’t just fancy, it’s also smart! It makes it easier for people to walk up to the church. Think about all the people who have climbed these stairs over the years! The main staircase has a special landing in the middle with a statue of the Virgin Mary on top and a little balcony in front of it. This statue was added much later, in 1954.

So, next time you’re in Panjim, be sure to visit this Church. It’s one of the places to learn about Goa’s history and culture.