Old Goa is an architectural complex consisting mainly of monasteries and churches. The oldest of them are located on Holy Mountain, or the Sacred Hill (Monte Santo). This is where the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary is located. The hill offers a picturesque view of the Mandovi River and the island.
In its design, the building somewhat resembles a fortress because of its small towers with crosses and small windows. From above, the church has the shape of a cross, and it includes two chapels. Inside, there are three altars, one of which is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary.
The landmark was built by the first Portuguese admiral of Goa, Afonso de Albuquerque. Having reached these places, he vowed in gratitude to fortune to build a church and very soon fulfilled his promise: the church was erected in just six years. Inside, a memorial plaque telling about the events of those years has been preserved.
Francis Xavier, the founder of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuit order), who converted the people of India to Christianity, carried out his missionary work here. By ringing a small bell, he gathered parishioners here every day for sermons. Thanks to its association with Francis Xavier, the church remains very popular.
