Church & Convent of St. Monica

Among the famous churches of Goa, The Church & Convent of St. Monica is among the most beautiful.  Built in typical Portuguese style of architecture, this place is one of the must visit destinations on the tourist itinerary.

A church & a Nunnery

Church and Convent of St. Monica, Goa (Photo: Andreas Viklund)

The Church is located on the Holy Hill of OldGoa. Adjacent to the Chapel of St. Anthony, it is situated on the Holy Hill of Monte Santo. Interestingly this was the only convent to house the first nunnery in the east. The construction of this grand nunnery was started in 1606, and was completed in the year 1627. This building was destroyed in fire in 1636, and was rebuilt in the following year.

Architectural Splendour in Laterite

The Church and Convent of St. Monica is a huge three storied structure, made in laterite. This structure was originally plastered with lime but now it is plastered with cement. This is a square building and has large courtyard. There are various cells and halls with sheltered verandas. The vaulted ceilings are tastefully decorated with floral decorations and some scenes from Holy Bible are also painted.

Convent of St. Monica (Source: Rainstorm)

The convent was the residence of some 150 cosseted nuns, who were called as the Daughters of St. Monica. This convent was also called as the Royal Monastery and has eleven chapels in the convent besides the novitiate and a seminary for girls.  Presently the building has the Mater Dei Institute for nuns, which was started in 1964.

Reaching here

You can reach this place conveniently from anywhere in Goa. Various types of local transports are available to take you to this place. The best suited place from where you can reach this church and convent is Panjim, which is just 9 km away from this holy place.

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