Old Goa aka Goa velha is an ancient Goan city, adorned with rich history dating back to the Portuguese times. The city was epicenter of Portuguese rulers in India. It is famous today for its ancient churches built during the Portuguese era. Our lady of mount chapel is situated atop a mountain in one of the secluded parts of old goa. This little church is mostly overlooked by many visitors, but is certainly a hidden gem of all churches of Old goa.
The lime painted bright white walls and the simple exteriors are pleasing to the eyes. The church is constructed amidst beautiful surroundings & provides delightful sunset pictures, The view from its vantage point is truly breath taking as one can see the expanse of river mandovi with the beautiful islands of chorao & Divar on one side & the whole of old Goa from the other. The calmness experienced here will leave you with a lasting satisfaction.
Our lady of mount chapel was built by Afonso De Albuquerque to commemorate his victory over Adil Shah in 1519.The church chancel had three altars. The main altar has at its centre the image of Our Lady of the Mount holding the child Jesus. Above it is a picture of the coronation of the Virgin Mary, and below that a picture of Our Lady of Assumption. At the base of the retable are the busts of St. Vincent with a ship and St. Lawrence with a gridiron, the symbol of his martyrdom. The church has lavish interiors. The church remains closed most times except during the St Xaviers Feast & Iconic Monte music festival of Goa.
Our Lady of Mount Chapel - Old Goa (The Monte Music Festival)
Organized by the Fundacao Oriente in collaboration with the Kala Academy- Goa, the monte music festival aims to integrate Indian and Western forms of Classical music. The festival is held in February every year, attracting both performers and music enthusiasts across the globe. This festival is widely acclaimed and not to miss if you are a true music lover.
Distance from Panjim to Old Goa - 15 Kms ( Panjim- Belgaum highway)
Easily accessible by road, best way is by renting a bike or car.