The site that currently hosts the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the House for the Professed was historically referred to as Terreiro dos Galos, renowned for its cockfights that drew large crowds. However, in 1549, these cockfights were prohibited by the Vice-Roy, Matias de Albuquerque.
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The Jesuits made their initial arrival in Goa in 1542 and subsequently acquired four significant properties in Old Goa. These included the renowned Collegio de S. Paulo, the Bom Jesus Church along with its adjoining residence, the Church of St. Roque which housed the Novitiate, and a recreational facility adorned with exquisite fountains. There were various perspectives concerning the necessity and placement of the Professed House in relation to the College of S. Paulo, where all the authorities and professed priests resided. In 1583, Provincial Alessandro Valignano was entrusted by General Father Mercurian to make the necessary decisions in consultation with his fellow confreres.
Although the Franciscans were the first to establish a presence in Goa, the arrival of the Jesuits led to a rivalry between the two Orders. The Franciscans intended to set up a convent for sisters at the site designated for the Professed House; however, the Jesuits opposed this plan, and the local authorities were also unsupportive of the Franciscans, who sought assistance from King Filipe I of Portugal to no avail.
