Our Lady of Merces Church Colva Goa
A historic Portuguese-era church in Colva, Goa, offering a serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection, known for its beautiful architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Quiet reflection time
Our Lady of Merces Church Colva Goa
Best Time
Quiet reflection time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Portuguese-era church in Colva, Goa, offering a serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection, known for its beautiful architecture.
"Beautiful Portuguese era built church with a good prayer room tabernacle for quiet reflection."
Dress Code Matters
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Check Mass Schedules
Attend Sunday English mass for a full experience, but be aware it gets crowded. :church:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Impressive Portuguese Architecture
Main Sanctuary
Admire the beautiful architecture of this historic Portuguese-era church, a testament to its rich past.
Peaceful Reflection Space
Prayer Room/Tabernacle
Find a quiet corner for contemplation and prayer in the serene tabernacle, offering a moment of calm.
Grotto of the Nativity
Church Grounds
Explore the beautifully crafted grotto, especially enchanting during Christmas celebrations.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Code Matters
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Check Mass Schedules
Attend Sunday English mass for a full experience, but be aware it gets crowded. :church:
Quiet Reflection
The prayer room offers a peaceful escape for quiet contemplation. :dove:
Ample Parking Available
Don't worry about parking; there's plenty of space for cars. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Code Matters
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Check Mass Schedules
Attend Sunday English mass for a full experience, but be aware it gets crowded. :church:
Quiet Reflection
The prayer room offers a peaceful escape for quiet contemplation. :dove:
Ample Parking Available
Don't worry about parking; there's plenty of space for cars. :car:
Nearby Cafes
Explore cafes like Bakeroni near the church for a bite. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Our Lady of Merces Church for its beautiful Portuguese architecture and the profound sense of peace it offers. Many highlight the serene atmosphere, making it ideal for quiet reflection and prayer. The church is also noted for its active community role and the convenience of nearby dining options.
"One of the churches to visit in COLVA. You can just spend view minutes here. A calm environment. Feel the peacefulness. Not a must visit place in Goan itinerary."
Manu Parthan
"This is near Colva beach. A Church festival was going on when we visited this place. . It's a fortnight festival it seems. There was a fair selling all types of items .Did a lot of shopping for my wife and daughter. Festive atmosphere reigned during that period.
Saw a few oldest Portuguese burials."
Kolakaluri Sri Kiran
"Beautiful portguese era built church with a good prayer room tabernacle for quiet reflection. They run sunday worship services in english and the attendance is full every sunday for catholic mass. I visited during Jul/Aug 2025 during the monsoon. It is also called the Colva church as it is close to that village and beach."
Urban De Souza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in Colva, South Goa. You can reach it by taxi or rented scooter from major Goan towns. It's close to Colva beach, making it easy to combine with a beach visit. 
Yes, there is ample space for car parking available at the church premises, which is convenient for visitors.
Absolutely! Visiting during the monsoon (July-August) can offer a quieter and more reflective experience.
Locally, it's often referred to as 'The Colva Church' or 'Our Lady of Mercy Church, Colva'.
The church is generally accessible, and renovation work is ongoing to further enhance its facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the church is free. It's a place of worship, and visitors are welcome to enter respectfully.
The church is generally open throughout the day, but it's best to visit outside of mass times for a peaceful experience. Specific hours can vary.
Yes, you can attend mass. Sunday worship services are held in English, and Catholic mass is also available.
Entry to the church itself is free. Special events like the Fama De Menino Jesus feast are community celebrations and typically do not have an entry fee for the church premises.
While photography is generally allowed, it's always best to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid flash photography.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Visitors describe the atmosphere as peaceful, serene, and quiet, perfect for reflection and prayer.
It's a beautiful example of Portuguese-era architecture, reflecting its historical significance.
Key points include the main sanctuary, the prayer room with its tabernacle, and the beautifully made grotto.
Yes, it's considered a good place to visit with families who appreciate holistic prayer and peace of mind.
Fama De Menino Jesus is a feast celebrated at the church, honoring the Infant Jesus, and draws devotees.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes nearby. Bakeroni, located in the church building, offers Pides, bread bowls, pastas, and desserts.
Bakeroni serves freshly baked Pides (Turkish Pizza), bread bowls, pastas, savory items, and desserts. They also offer tea and coffee.
Bakeroni offers a variety of vegan and non-vegetarian options, so it should cater to different dietary preferences.
Yes, cafes like Bakeroni offer drinks such as tea, coffee, and cocktails.
Colva, being a popular tourist area, has numerous restaurants and cafes offering Goan and international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful and respectful, especially during services. Avoid flash.
The church's facade, the grotto, and the surrounding architecture offer great photo opportunities. Drone shots can capture the church's context within Colva.
Drone photography is possible, as shown by local drone photographers, but always check and adhere to local drone regulations.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the church's exterior.
Its historic Portuguese architecture, serene ambiance, and the beautifully crafted grotto make it a picturesque subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the ample parking available, making arrival and departure hassle-free.
+3 Remember to dress modestly to respect the sanctity of the place.🙏 Devotees and Spiritual Seekers
The church's historical significance, combined with its active role in the community through events like the Fama De Menino Jesus feast, adds to its spiritual appeal.
+1 Visitors often leave feeling refreshed and spiritually uplifted after spending time in its tranquil surroundings. 📸 Photographers and Culture Enthusiasts
Culture enthusiasts can delve into the church's history, understanding its role as a significant landmark in Goa's colonial past.
Experiencing the local community during mass or special feasts provides a deeper insight into Goan traditions and religious practices. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
This historical significance is evident in its architecture, which reflects the Portuguese colonial style prevalent in Goa during that period. The church has undergone renovations over time, with ongoing work aimed at further enhancing its grandeur. The church is not just a historical monument but also a vibrant center of faith. It is locally known as 'The Colva Church' and plays a significant role in the community's religious life. The Fama De Menino Jesus, a feast celebrating the Infant Jesus, is a notable event held here, drawing many devotees.
+1 Its enduring presence makes it a landmark that connects the past with the present in Colva.Experiencing Peace and Reflection
Beyond the main sanctuary, the beautifully crafted grotto is another area that invites contemplation. It's particularly noted for its charm during the Christmas season, adding to the church's appeal as a place for quiet introspection and spiritual engagement.
Culinary Delights Near the Church
+3 Bakeroni specializes in freshly baked Pides (a type of Turkish pizza), hearty bread bowls, delicious pastas, and a tempting array of desserts. +3This cafe provides a perfect spot to relax after visiting the church, offering a variety of savory and sweet options. They also serve tea and coffee, making it a versatile destination for a quick snack or a leisurely meal. With both vegan and non-vegetarian choices available, Bakeroni caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences, adding a modern culinary dimension to the historic Colva area.
+1
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