The Church of St Augustine was proposed and built in 1602. Twelve Augustan Friars unified their efforts and resources started the construction of the church on the Holy Hill at Old Goa in September 1572, which was completed by 1602. The Portuguese government afterward issued a prohibitions against and the twelve men who had to vacate the church and the convent besides it. The church and the convent both are in ruins now. However, the elevated 46-metre high Bell Tower still remains and forms a foremost segment of the ruins. This highly evident landmark, a 46m-high tower formed part of the facade of an impressive Church and served as a belfry. The prominent St. Augustine's tower is all that remains of what was once one of the largest buildings in Goa. The ruined Augustans Monastery is still a major attraction in Goa. As you arrive in the church you will see a sight of the imposing retable of the high altar, with its large gilt tabernacle sheltered within an arch, through a screen of arched piers. The nave of the Church can be seen, covering the vast nave was a barrel vault, whose enormous weight unfortunately hastened its collapse. The church was fully vacated in the early 18th century. The church fell into abandon and the vault distorted in 1842. The church's downfall began with the collapse of this vault. The main edifice of the church was soon ruined, but the facade remained untouched.
How to Reach :
The church is located in old Goa, on top of Holy Hill, Panaji. Local transport is readily available in Goa which will take you conveniently to this historic church.
City Info :
Basking in the serene panorama of the undisturbed Arabian Sea on one side and the Western Ghats, this district with the unharmed beaches, verdant green countryside, swaying palm trees, coconut grooves, architectural splendors, rich flora and fauna all combine to make a admired tourist destination with pleasant climate is enough reason to attract a visitor. Goa is internationally famous for its beaches.
