St. Paul Church Diu

Name: Diu
Rating: 3.5

Diu Gujarat India

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3.5 /5 (61 Votes)

Weather :

Time Required : 1-2 hrs

Timings : 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

St. Paul Church, Diu Overview

Situated in Diu, a Union Territory of India, St. Paul’s Church is the largest and the only functioning church in Diu. Renowned all over the world for its stunning architecture by Indian craftsmen, the church boasts of rich wood carvings, splendid facade, intriguing volutes and shell-like motifs.

Dedicated to Lady of Immaculate Conception, its construction was completed in 1601 AD. Sharing close similarity with the Basilica of Bom Jesus at Goa, the church mesmerizes with the exquisite work. Sitting in utmost silence in the heavenly beautiful church lit up by lights is surely a soul-soothing experience.

Architecture of St Paul Church Diu

Built in the Baroque architectural style, the church was constructed by the Portuguese during the colonial rule of the territory. The interior is impressive with intricately carved woodwork. The design includes delicate volutes and shell. The front elevation or facade is also said to be the most detailed of all Portuguese churches built in India.

The altar has an image of St. Mary and is carved from Burmese teak and has 101 candles around it. Above the altar, there is a blue and white barrel-vaulted nave adorned with priceless old paintings and statues. Common in most of the churches in Goa, it has extravagant carved decorations in white stucco. The uniquely designed facade is mainly attributed to the craftsmanship of Indian artisans.

History

The St. Paul’s Church, named after St. Paul, the Apostle of Jesus also known as the Apostle to the Gentiles, was built in 1601 AD. Dedicated to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, it is built in the style similar to Bom Jesus Basilica church at Goa.