Diu Island

Diu Island is lying off the south coast of Gujarat's Kathiawar peninsula, separated from the mainland by a tidal creek. It has an area of 40 km², and a population of 44,110 (2001 census).It belongs to Diu District and lies 5 km to the east of Diu Head. Diu is part of the Union territory of Daman and Diu. Both Daman and Diu share the same member of parliament.The town of Diu and Diu Fort are located on the island. There is also an airport, Diu Airport.ChurchesSt. Paul's ChurchThe construction of this church was started in 1601 and was completed by 1610. The Church is dedicated to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception in 1691. Illuminated by flood lights (by night time), the main façade of the church is perhaps the most elaborate of all Portuguese churches in India. In architectural style it resembles Bom Jesus Church at Old Goa. The dominant features are, no doubt, Gothic. The wood - panelling of the church is rated one of the best in church craftsmanship. The church adorned with curiously treated volutes and shell - like motifs and the magnificent wood carving.St. Thomas ChurchNow a museum, the old St. Thomas Church houses antique statues, various stone inscriptions of the earlier rulers, wooden carvings and idols. The huge edifice in gothic architecture was built in 1598. A part of it has been converted into a museum - an archaeological treasure house. The artifacts displayed date back to the 16th century and beyond. In evening, multicolored fountains and special lighting of the imposing building fascinate everyone.