Holy Cross Shrine
The Holy Cross Shrine, also known as the Fulancho Khuris (Cross of Flowers) or the Miraculous Cross, is an iconic spot in Bambolim that almost everyone passes through on their way to South Goa. A tiny cross was on the side of the road long before the Holy Cross church was built on the site. The Shrine, a protective barrier around the Miraculous Cross, was recently built in 1996. Most people pay their respects here by leaving candles, flower garlands, or cash.
The plateau once housed a dense forest has been transformed into a township. An eye-catching Shrine has also made it known on the Bambolim plateau, where high-rise apartment buildings compete with charming bungalows. The Fulancho Khuris (Cross of Flowers) was famous until recently, but today Archbishop Raul Gonsalves officially blessed a shrine dedicated to this Cross.
Fulancho Khuris is well-known not only throughout Goa but also beyond its borders. Visitors commonly stop their vehicles and pay homage to the Cross along the side of National Highway 14. With the opening of Goa Medical College nearby, patients and their families flock to the Cross to pray for a speedy recovery. Residents of the nearby military camp also worship the Holy Cross.
Places to visit Goa near Holy Cross Shrine
Old Goa:
Just a short distance from the Holy Cross Shrine, Old Goa is a history and architecture treasure trove. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed churches and cathedrals, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Marvel at the intricate Baroque and Portuguese architectural styles and delve into the region's rich colonial past.
Panaji:
The capital city of Goa, Panaji (or Panjim), offers a blend of old-world charm and modern attractions. Stroll along the picturesque streets of Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter, known for its colourful Portuguese-style houses. Visit the iconic Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church and the vibrant marketplaces such as the Municipal Market and the 18th June Road for shopping and culinary delights.
Miramar Beach:
Located near Panaji, Miramar Beach is a popular destination for sun-seekers and nature lovers. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the sandy shoreline, indulge in water sports, or relax and soak in the beauty of the Arabian Sea. The beach offers stunning sunset views and is great for picnics and evening walks.
Dona Paula:
Situated on the outskirts of Panaji, Dona Paula is a picturesque spot known for its scenic beauty and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Visit the Dona Paula viewpoint, named after a tragic love story, and enjoy the breathtaking vistas. Explore Dona Paula Beach, indulge in water sports, and immerse yourself in the laid-back coastal ambience.
Aguada Fort:
Located in Candolim, Aguada Fort is a historic landmark from the 17th century. The fort offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Mandovi River. Explore the well-preserved bastions, walk along the ramparts, and admire the architectural marvel. Adjacent to the fort is the Aguada Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Anjuna Beach:
Famous for its vibrant flea market and lively nightlife, Anjuna Beach is a must-visit destination in North Goa. Relax on the sandy shores, dip in the turquoise waters, and soak up the sun. Don't miss the Wednesday Anjuna Flea Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, clothing, handicrafts, and more.
Calangute Beach:
Known as the "Queen of Beaches," Calangute Beach is one of the most popular and lively beaches in Goa. Enjoy a range of water sports, indulge in beachside shacks serving delicious seafood, and witness the vibrant nightlife. The beach is also dotted with numerous shops, restaurants, and resorts.
Dudhsagar Falls:
For nature enthusiasts, a trip to Dudhsagar Falls is a must. Located on the border of Goa and Karnataka, this magnificent waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests. Take a train ride or a jeep safari to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the cascading water. It is advisable to check the accessibility and conditions before planning a visit.
Spice Plantations:
Goa is famous for its spice plantations, where you can embark on a guided tour to learn about cultivating various spices like cardamom, black pepper, and vanilla. Enjoy a traditional Goan meal, take a refreshing walk amidst the aromatic plantations, and learn about the region's rich culinary heritage.
Wildlife Sanctuaries:
Goa is home to several wildlife sanctuaries where you can explore the region's biodiversity. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Mollem National Park, and Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary offer opportunities to spot unique flora and fauna, including elephants, deer, birds, and butterflies.
The Cross and the Flowers (Fulancho Khuris)
Fulancho Khuris is the name given to the Cross because it is always covered in brightly coloured local flowers such as marigolds (Abolim and Rosam). Various members of the community near the Cross-sell flowers. Ana Maria has another explanation. Previously, Gawdas lived near Bambolim, who had rejected the Christianity to which they had been converted. Women from this neighbourhood who died during pregnancy or childbirth were buried near the Cross. Abolim and Rosam's graves were mostly covered in colourful flowers.
After abandoning Christianity, this community continued to offer litany before the Cross, and the Cross would be covered with colourful flowers at these times. It's unsurprising that women and men from the same community are selling flowers near the Cross today. At Carambolim, the goudas offer a litany at a chapel in their ward and invite Catholics from the village to participate. This demonstrates that people who renounced Christianity continue to offer prayers at the Cross and Christian symbols of worship. Until recently, a similar practice was followed at Palle in Siridao.
When the parish priest, Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa, decided to build the Shrine then, he resolved not to accept any donations from foreign agencies. The imposing and magnificent structure that can be seen today was built at a cost of around 70 lakhs and may have even surpassed a crore by the time the entire project was completed. Surprisingly, the whole sum came from the faithful and devotees of the Cross.
Archbishop Raul Gonsalves laid the foundation stone for the Shrine on May 21, 1995, and construction began in September of that year. The Shrine was finished in a year, a miracle in and of itself.
Architect Ralino de Souza created the Shrine's unique atmosphere. While the exterior is impressive, the interior, with its two-tier system, is equally intriguing. The lower level faces the altar, while the back is elevated. This is done so that everyone in the Shrine can see the altar (behind which a life-size statue of Christ smiles at the crowd) and concentrate on the service. The Shrine, built by S. N. Construction of Vasco, was blessed on October 13, 1996, at 10 a.m. by Msgr. Raul N. Gonsalves.
Well, she recognised all around Goa as Fulancho Khuris, i.e. Cross of Flowers in Bambolim, discovers tourists all day and all night without devoirs to the climate. The Holy Cross Shrine stands properly at the back of this excellent Cross. Compared to the opposite church buildings in North Goa, the Holy Cross Shrine is the latent construct. The Shrine was built recently in 1996, forming a defensive barrier around the Miraculous Cross.
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FAQ
Q.1 How to reach the Holy Cross Shrine in Goa?
Ans One can reach the Holy Cross Shrine in Goa from Panjim as it's 5 km and anyone can quickly get cabs, Auto to go to the location.
Q.2 When is Feast Day celebrated in Holy Cross Shrine in Goa?
Ans Every 3rd Sunday of May is the Feast Day in Holy Cross Shrine in Goa.
Q.3 What are the timings to visit Holy Cross Shrine in Goa?
Ans The visiting Timing of the Holy Cross Shrine in Goa is From 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Q.4 Which is the best Month to visit the Holy Cross Shrine in Goa?
Ans One can plan to visit the Holy Cross Shrine in Goa in any month throughout the year as all the months are best.
Q.5 Are there any nearby Hotels from Holy Cross Shrine in Goa to stay?
Ans Yes, there are many nearby Hotels from the Holy Cross Shrine in Goa like Grand Hyatt, Bambolim, Cidade Goa, Bay 15, Sandalwood Hotel and Retreat, and many more.