Background

Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria: A Testament to Goa's Past

Discover the Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria in Old Goa, a timeless landmark of faith, history, and Goan heritage.

4.4

The Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria in Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Asia's oldest Christian structures. Built in 1510 by Afonso de Albuquerque to commemorate his entry into Goa on St. Catherine's Day, it stands near the Church of St. Francis of Assisi and the Se Cathedral. Its simple yet striking facade and serene atmosphere offer a glimpse into Goa's colonial history.

A brief summary to Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit between October and March for the most pleasant weather.
  • Combine your visit with the nearby Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and Church of St. Francis of Assisi for a comprehensive historical tour.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as the chapel is not always open to visitors.
  • Respect the dress code by covering shoulders and knees when entering the chapel.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Chapel of St. Catherine is located within the same compound as the Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi in Old Goa. From the Se Cathedral, walk west towards the Church of St Francis of Assisi; the Chapel of St. Catherine is located to the left of the church. The walk is short and easy, taking only a few minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Panaji, buses frequently depart from the Kadamba bus terminal to Old Goa. The bus ride takes approximately 17 minutes and costs ₹13-₹20. Once in Old Goa, the chapel is easily accessible on foot, located near the Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. From Dabolim Airport, take a bus to Panaji KTC Bus Stand. Then, take another bus from Panaji to Old Goa. The total bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes and costs ₹44-₹70. Alternatively, a taxi from the airport to Old Goa costs approximately ₹800-₹1,200 and takes 30-40 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available from Panaji and other nearby towns. A taxi ride from Panaji to Old Goa takes approximately 15 minutes and costs ₹350-₹430. From Karmali Railway Station, hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw for a short ride to the chapel. Note: Taxi and auto-rickshaw fares are negotiable. It's advisable to agree on a price before starting the journey.

Unlock the Best of Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria

Located in the historic heart of Old Goa, the Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria is a significant landmark representing the region's rich history. Constructed in 1510 by Afonso de Albuquerque to mark his victory in Goa on St. Catherine's Day (November 25th), the chapel is one of the oldest Christian buildings in Asia. The chapel's architecture features a pale yellow facade made of laterite stones and lime mortar, with towers on either side. The interior is simple, with a single altar dedicated to St. Catherine and a statue of Our Lady. Rectangular window panes dressed in mica shells add to its unique character. The chapel's brown and white facade distinguishes it from Goa's typically whitewashed churches. In 1534, Pope Paul III granted the chapel cathedral status, and it was expanded in 1550 by Portuguese Governor George Cabral. Today, the Chapel of St. Catherine is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with other churches and convents of Goa. Although the chapel is not always open to visitors, it remains a historical and cultural landmark, offering a glimpse into Goa's colonial past.

Popular Experiences near Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria

Popular Hotels near Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria

Select Currency