Pics: Goakhabar.com

Rupesh Samant

Old Goa, Feb 17: Portugal President Marcelo Rebelo de Souza on Sunday, February 16, visited churches at Old Goa.

The President paid visit to Basilica of Bom Jesus, where the relics of St Francis Xavier are preserved. He also paid visit to Institute Mater Dei Santa Monica, a Church in the Old Goa heritage complex.

The Portugal President also visited Christian Art Museum, situated at Santa Monica Church.

All the structures are part of the complex certified as world heritage monuments by UNESCO at Old Goa, nine kms away from Panaji.

“During his visit to Basilica, he prayed to the relics of St Francis Xavier and went around seeing the building which was constructed in the year 1605,” Fr Patricio Fernandes, Rector of Basilica told reporters.

He said that the President was “impressed” with the structure and spiritual aspect of the Basilica, which has been known for having healing powers.

“I also showed him the cascade which has the relics of St Francis Xavier,” he said. The relics of Spanish saint are revered across the world by faithful.