A masterpiece of architectural grace
St. Paul's Church is an exemplar of Gothic architecture and is very important to Diu's Christian community. Weekly mass services are held within its hallowed walls. Two bell towers with exquisite carvings add further grandeur, while its entrance features a beautifully carved wooden door with scenes and motifs from the scripture, welcoming visitors into an oasis of divine beauty.
Being a heritage site, St Paul's Church holds significant cultural value. The imposing stone dome, with its impressive vaulted design, evokes admiration. However, the true treasures of the church lie within the three altars and the pulpit, all meticulously crafted from black wood with exceptional precision and craftsmanship. The wood used in the construction was believed to be sourced from Mozambique, another Portuguese colony in Africa.
At the main entrance gates of the Church, two iconic paintings adorn the inside walls: one depicting the birth of Jesus on the left, and the other depicting the presentation of the child Jesus in the temple, fulfilling prophecy, with Simeon the High Priest holding baby Jesus. The main altar features a beautiful statue of Mary, the Immaculate Conception, with the Sanctuary below, known as the Holy of Holies or the Sanctum Sanctorum.
To the right of the altar is the consecrated space for Our Lady of Rosary, with a statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus displayed below. The area also includes statues of the Sacred Heart of Mary and St. Joseph. To the left of the main altar is the space dedicated to Our Lady of Mount, with a statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel displayed below, alongside statues of St. Anthony and St. Sebastian. Adorning the walls of the Church are fourteen frames depicting the passion of Jesus, known as the Way of the Cross..
Incredible stories from the past
Beyond its artistic charm lies a history rich with legends and mysteries that add even further allure. For example, passageways link it with nearby structures like Diu Fort. Legend has it that Portuguese troops used these secret passageways during battles to move stealthily around town.
Legend also has it that St. Paul's Church holds an extraordinary statue of Mary, which many believe miraculously saved its surrounding town from being devastated during an intense storm.