The beautiful sunsets that can be viewed from the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, makes it very popular with tourists. The Mandovi River flowing against the backdrop of wooded is a captivating sight from high atop the hill, where this church in Goa is situated.
History:
In 1510, Alphonso de Albuquerque built this church in Goa, to mark his victory over Goa. Alphonso took over the reins of Goa from the Muslim ruler, Sultan Adil Shah who fought against the Portuguese conquerors. Since its construction, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount has been twice subjected to reconstruction, preserving its historical heritage.
Architecture:
Made of laterite plaster and limestone, the white washed walls of the church is a striking feature that can be glimpsed from the top of the hill. The vaulted chapel houses three altars, each dedicated to three saints. The middle altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Mount; the other two are dedicated to St Anthony and St Andrew.
The rectangular shaped hall faces the east - west direction. The choir sits on a mezzanine platform on the west, approached by a flight of stairs, which stands along the northern wall. The east houses the main sanctuary. You will find the Sacristy and the Vestry, beside the main sanctuary.
The walls of the chapel are made of laterite and limestone. Mud is also mixed, and the mixture is filled between two single blocks of laterite.
Location:
The chapel is located 2 kms from Old Goa. If you follow the road leading to Ponda, just turn off at the Kuchcha road. There is a cross, which indicates the turn. Following this road, you will come across a hill, atop which stands the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount.
Access:
You can get auto - rickshaws, buses and taxis from Old Goa to reach the chapel. Alternately, you can also ride to the chapel on a motorcycle, available for hire in Old Goa.
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