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After the beaches, the most prominent attractions of Goa are its churches. And Old Goa’s Se Cathedral is the best of the lot. This article gives a brief description of this UNESCO heritage site and offers some traveling tips. Goa boasts of many beaches like the Calangute, Candolim, Baga and Anjuna. It is understandable that most tourists come to this state to spend time on the frothy and lively beaches. But it would be a big mistake on your part if you forget to visit some fascinating churches which this place has to offer. Amongst the many churches, the most prominent and the most gigantic one is the Se Cathedral. It is a 17th century structure which is over 350 years old. It is included in the list of UNESCO heritage sites and is a major draw of Goa tourism. Location: Se Cathedral is located in the outskirts of the city of Panaji. Statistically speaking, it is less than 10 km from Panaji and can be reached through a taxi or car in around 15 minutes. Despite its easy location, one must say that the area around it is almost isolated. The population in Old Goa is sparse and the all-pervading silence heightens the beauty and mysticism of this place. There are some other landmarks and heritage buildings in Old Goa as well. But Se Cathedral towers over them all, in both literal and figurative sense! Rules and regulations for visiting the church: There are no strict rules or regulations for visiting this church. The general rules are the same as are for most other cathedrals. One must not scream or wail inside the church, since it is a place whose quiet needs to be respected. So, even if you speak, do so in hushed tones. Also, it would be naïve of you to attire yourself in scanty costumes. This is not a beach. So, leave your shorts and bikinis behind! It would be advisable to wear dresses which do not show much skin. Skirts can be shunned. And even if you wear one, make sure that it is not a mini skirt but an adequately long one. Once you step inside the church, you will find many mural paintings to observe. Photography may not be permitted, in which case you must refrain from taking pictures. Speaking ill of the religion or God would be considered blasphemous and would hurt the sentiments of the priests or the local community. So, even if you are an atheist and are visiting the church just for the sake of sightseeing, please do not make any unfair or hurtful comment. Some tips for Se Cathedral sightseers: Se Cathedral should form a part of your program when you are visiting Goa. It would be best to browse through some Goa packages and figure out the best package which offers you a visit to this church. It would save you time as well as money. If you have a mobile phone, then you should not talk over it inside the church. That would be considered impolite and would also be a mark of disrespect apart from being disturbing. Preferably, you must not let the phone ring aloud (so, turn it off or put in silent)! Hungry Bags, the holiday planner for Goa tourism, has a huge collection of Goa packages to send you backpacking on the beaches and churches of this incredible state.
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