Neglected four–century–old Goa Church to be renovated

The Goa government on Monday announced, it would renovate and reestablish the 430–year–old St. Anna Church at Talaulim in Santana, Goa.

The church, which was built and declared a "national monument" during the Portuguese era, is an example of baroque architecture, which is the most exquisite and the largest surviving monument of its kind in all of Asia.

Upon Goa's annexation by India, the Church remained forsaken and neglected to this day.

A press release by the official department of Information and Publicity said, “Goa’s Chief Minister Digambar Kamat commenced the work for renovation and restoration of over 430–year–old St. Ann Church at Talaulim in Tiswadi taluka.”

“The renovation work of the Church will be taken up by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH ) at a cost of Rs. 4.88 crore,” added the official release.

Apart from the funding of the state government and agencies, the World Monument Fund will also contribute in the renovation progress.

“The entire work of renovating and restoring this important monument to its former glory is expected to be completed in two and half year time," continued the report.

The state chief Minister in a press statement said, the renovation has already begun and will be assiduously managed.

The politico further highlighting the historical importance of the Church said, the renovation will "help restore the pristine beauty of the church."

The 17th century church, considered to be the biggest in Asia, has been craving for the authorities’ attention since August 2007 when a portion of the Church came crumbling down following heavy rains.

Parishioners fear that if renovation further delays, the Church might be seriously affected by the oncoming monsoon.