The Saptakoteshwar Temple, located in Narve, Goa, is one of the most revered and ancient temples dedicated to Lord Saptakoteshwar, a form of Lord Shiva. It is considered one of the six great temples of Lord Shiva in the Konkan region and holds immense historical and spiritual significance.
The temple’s origins date back to the Kadamba dynasty, when it was a prominent site of worship. However, the temple was destroyed during the Portuguese rule in Goa, and the deity was subsequently relocated to its present site in Narve by the Maratha king, Shivaji Maharaj, in 1668. The temple features a distinctive blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural elements, including a Mughal-style dome atop the structure, a unique feature in Goan temples.
The presiding deity, Lord Saptakoteshwar, is believed to have been worshipped by seven sages (Sapta Rishis), which gives the temple its name. The temple complex includes a deepstambha (lamp tower), a large courtyard, and a sacred water tank. The temple celebrates the annual Mahashivaratri festival with great devotion and enthusiasm, drawing many devotees from across the region.
This temple is not only a place of spiritual worship but also an embodiment of Goa’s rich cultural heritage, especially given its connection to the Maratha empire and the local Goan rulers.
