When I visited the Latin quarter Fontainhas in Goa, I was struck by the charm of the old-world architecture and the peaceful ambiance of the surroundings. As I strolled through the narrow winding streets, I came across a church standing at the very point of the road’s intersection, capturing the essence of this historic neighborhood. This church, known as St. Sebastian Chapel, is a testament to Goa’s rich heritage and a site that left a lasting impression on me during my visit. It’s located in close proximity to Cafe Meu Lar by Barista, where I had a delightful cup of coffee. In this blog post, I will take you on a journey through the history, architecture, and significance of the St. Sebastian Chapel in Goa.
St. Sebastian Chapel Goa: Bridging the Past and Present with Miracles and Heritage
The Chapel of St. Sebastian, constructed in the year 1818, is a well-known and cherished tourist attraction in Goa. It is dedicated to St. Sebastian, a revered figure with a remarkable history of healing and miraculous interventions.
In the past, the Salcette area, where the chapel is situated, grappled with recurring outbreaks of pestilence and plagues, leaving the local community in distress. It was during these trying times that the people of the region turned to St. Sebastian, seeking his divine intervention and assistance. The saint, through his benevolent mediation, is said to have provided relief and miraculous cures, alleviating the suffering of the afflicted.
The architecture of the St. Sebastian Chapel is a testament to the colonial legacy of Goa. With a small nave and an adjoining narrow corridor that leads to the choir, this whitewashed church exudes a unique charm. Notably, the chapel houses a striking crucifix, which has an intriguing history of its own. Originally located in the Palace of Inquisition in Old Goa, this crucifix is distinct in that it depicts Christ with open eyes. Local folklore attributes magical properties to this crucifix, believing it has the power to bring retribution to troublemakers and bestow blessings upon those who uphold goodness.
The Inquisition, established in Goa in 1560, played a significant role in the history of the crucifix. It was later relocated to the Adil Shah’s Palace or the Secretariat and subsequently found its place in the St. Sebastian Chapel when the Viceroys moved to a new residence at Cabo.
Inside the chapel, one can also find a statue of the Virgin Mary, along with two marquetry chests and three intricately carved screens that were originally part of a church in Diu, a former colony of Goa. These artifacts bear witness to the cultural and historical connections that span beyond the borders of Goa.
The St. Sebastian Chapel not only stands as an architectural gem but also serves as the focal point for the vibrant annual street feast celebrated each mid-November by the locals, in honor of the Feast of Our Lady of Livrament. The chapel’s presence dominates the small square where these lively festivities take place. Additionally, an old traditional well is intricately attached to the chapel, adding to its historical significance and the rich tapestry of Goa’s heritage.
The St. Sebastian Chapel, nestled in the heart of Fontainhas, Goa, is a hidden gem of historical and religious significance. Its architecture and the artifacts it houses provide a window into the past.
Architectural Elegance
The chapel’s interior is a blend of simplicity and elegance. It boasts a small nave, which is connected to a narrow corridor. A winding staircase within this corridor leads visitors to the choir room perched above, offering a unique vantage point for reflection and worship. The architecture of the chapel, with its high ceilings and classic design, exudes an aura of peace and devotion.
The Enigmatic Crucifix
One of the most remarkable and enigmatic exhibits within the St. Sebastian Chapel is the crucifix of Jesus. What sets this crucifix apart is that it’s one of the few representations of Christ with open eyes. This unique feature carries a historical weight, as the crucifix serves as a tangible relic from the Inquisition era in Goa during the 15th century.
Following the Inquisition, the crucifix embarked on a journey of its own. It was relocated to the Adil Shah Palace in Panjim, serving as a silent witness to the turbulent times and the suffering endured by many during the harsh inquisition period. Its final destination is the St. Sebastian Chapel in Fontainhas, where it stands today as a poignant testament to history.
Virgin Mary and Treasures from Afar
Beyond the remarkable crucifix, the chapel houses a statue of the Virgin Mary, an embodiment of devotion and faith for the chapel’s visitors. Additionally, the chapel’s collection includes two marquetry chests and three intricately carved screens. These precious items were acquired from a church in Diu, a region near Gujarat that was once a part of the Portuguese empire. These artifacts bear witness to the far-reaching cultural connections and influences that have shaped the heritage of Goa.
Intriguing in its history and architecture, the St. Sebastian Chapel in Fontainhas offers not only a place of worship but also a glimpse into the layers of history, faith, and cultural exchange that have left an indelible mark on this charming corner of Goa.
