A majestic 16th-century cathedral in Old Goa, this UNESCO site is one of Asia's largest churches, known for its grand Golden Bell.
Discover what makes this destination truly special

Se Cathedral, dedicated to Catherine of Alexandria, stands as one of the most imposing churches in Old Goa. As you approach, its massive white facade, built in a Portuguese-Gothic style with a Tuscan exterior, immediately commands attention. Upon entering, the sheer scale of the interior is impressive. The main nave is exceptionally long and leads to a grand, gilded main altar that showcases paintings and carvings depicting the life of St. Catherine. The interior feels spacious and calm, with light filtering through the high windows. Visitors can walk through the nave and explore the fourteen side chapels, each with its own unique altar and artistry. One of the cathedral's most notable features is the 'Golden Bell' housed in its tower, known for its rich and deep tone. It's one of the largest of its kind in Goa. The cathedral is an active place of worship, so you might see services in progress, adding to the authentic atmosphere. It’s located in the same complex as other historic churches, making it a central point for exploring Old Goa's past.
Ideal For
Plan your trip around the ideal season for the best experience
December to January, especially during Christmas and New Year's week, and on long public holiday weekends.
October-November and February-March, on weekday afternoons.
April to September, during the hot summer and heavy monsoon seasons.
Plan ahead with accurate pricing and visiting hours
Indian Visitors
Free
No entry fee
Opening Hours
7:30 AM — 6:00 PM
Open all days. Weekday Mass is held at 7:30 AM and 6:00 PM. Sunday Mass timings are 7:15 AM, 10:00 AM, and 4:00 PM. Timings are subject to change on feast days and special occasions.
Free entry for all visitors.
Find your way to this destination with ease
Multiple ways to get to this destination conveniently
Goa International Airport (Dabolim, GOI) is the closest airport, about 25 km away, which takes 45-60 minutes by taxi. The new Manohar International Airport (Mop...
The nearest railway station is Karmali (KRMI), located just 3 km from Old Goa. Other major stations like Madgaon (MAO) and Vasco da Gama (VSG) are further away ...
Old Goa is situated on the NH 748 and is well-connected by road. It is approximately 9 km from Panjim, the state capital. Regular buses, taxis, and rental vehic...
Local transport options include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based services like Goa Miles. Renting a scooter or motorcycle is a popular and convenient way fo...
Learn about the story and cultural importance of this destination
Construction of the Se Cathedral began in 1562 during the reign of King Dom Sebastião of Portugal. It was built to commemorate the Portuguese victory over the city's Muslim rulers in 1510, which occurred on the feast day of Saint Catherine of Alexandria. The cathedral was completed in 1619, though i...
Se Cathedral holds immense religious and historical significance as the cathedral of the Latin Rite Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Goa and Daman. Its architectural grandeur, a mix of Portuguese-Gothic and Tuscan styles, makes it a landmark structure. As part of the 'Churches and Convents of Goa' ense...
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