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Our Lady of Merces Church: A Beacon of Faith in Colva

Discover the historic Our Lady of Merces Church in Colva, Goa, a beacon of faith and architectural beauty since 1630.

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Our Lady of Merces Church, also known as the Colva Church, has been a prominent landmark in Colva, Goa since 1630. Its pristine white facade and colonial-era architecture attract visitors with its serene atmosphere and historical significance. The church is most famous for the miraculous statue of Menino Jesus, which inspires devotion among generations.

A brief summary to Our Lady of Merces Church

  • 7WHC+CX8, Colva Beach Rd, near Infant Jesus High School, Kolve, Fatona, Goa, 403708, IN
  • Monday 7 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-8 pm
  • Friday 7 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the church, as it is a place of worship.
  • Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and to enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
  • Attend the annual 'Fama de Menino' feast in October to witness a vibrant celebration.
  • Take a stroll around the surrounding area to appreciate the traditional Goan architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Colva Beach, walk towards the village center on Colva Beach Rd. The church is approximately 1.6 km away, a pleasant 10-15 minute stroll through the village. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Margao Railway Station, exit from Platform 4 and walk left along the road parallel to the railway track. Continue until you reach a diversion, then turn right and look for the Kamat bus stop. Private minibusses run from Kamat bus stop to Colva. From the Colva bus stop, the church is a short walk away. Bus fare is approximately ₹20-₹30.

  • Taxi

    From Dabolim Airport (GOI), take a taxi to Our Lady of Merces Church. The journey is approximately 25 km and takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Taxi fare will cost between ₹500 to ₹700. Alternatively, from Margao Railway Station, a taxi ride to the church is about 6.7 km and costs approximately ₹150-₹250.

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Discover more about Our Lady of Merces Church

Our Lady of Merces Church, or 'Nossa Senhora das Merces Igreja em Colva, Goa' in Portuguese, stands as a testament to faith and history in the coastal village of Colva. Constructed in 1630, the church has been a central part of Colva's identity for centuries. Originally a chapel affiliated with the Benaulim parish, it gained independent parish status in 1635. The church's architecture reflects a blend of European and Indian influences, showcasing the colonial aesthetic of the Portuguese era. Its white facade stands out against the lush Goan landscape, inviting admiration from all who pass by. Inside, the church features a cruciform floor plan, with a central nave and transepts. The altar is intricately decorated, creating a sense of peace and divinity. The church is renowned for the statue of Menino Jesus, believed to have been found off the coast of Mozambique in the 17th century by shipwrecked sailors led by Fr Bento Ferreira. The statue is said to grant the wishes of childless couples. The annual 'Fama de Menino' feast, celebrated on the second Monday of October, draws crowds from around the world. During this event, the statue is brought out for public veneration. The statue is otherwise kept securely concealed in a triple-locked vault.

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