Quick Facts
Location - North Goa district, Goa, India
How To Reach - The nearest airport is Dabolin Airport (30km) is
located at Vasco da Gama. Vasco da Gama railhead is connected with major
cities of India. Old Goa is connected with well road network.
Where To Stay - here are many luxury, star rated and budget hotels
available.
When To Go - October to March
Tourist Attractions - Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, St.
Francis of Assisi church, Museum of Christian art.
Old Goa still reflects the strong culture of Portugal, who ruled it more
than 450 years, before getting independence in December 1961. Old Goa is
traditional, historic and unique cultural heritage. The travelers who just
think beyond beaches and fun, can visit the place for some magnificent
churches and architectural heritage. The Old Goa is dotted with cathedrals,
churches, medieval monuments, nunneries and other Portuguese buildings that
reminds the the Golden Era of the region.
Old Goa is a World Heritage Site and have rich history. Before the arrival
of the Portuguese on the Goan shores, it was a royal capital of Muslim ruler
Sultan Adil Shah of Bijapur. Alfonso de Albuquerque defeated the Sultan and
began a new chapter in the history of Goa. Old Goa was soon famed as the "
Lisbon of the East" but unfortunately in the 19th century, various
epidemics like cholera and malaria made the city highly unfriendly and the
Portuguese shifted their capital to Panaji in 1843. Old Goa is now
maintained by Archaeological Survey Of India. It is very important place for
Goans because of heritage churches. The trip to Old Goa is welcome break
from the beaches and boozes and venture into the rich history.
Sights And Activities
St Cathedral
The largest church in Old Goa was constructed in 1619. The architecture is
mixture of Portuguese -Gothic with Tuscan exterior and Corinthian interior.
The golden bell in the church is famed for its rich sound. The main altar is
dedicated to St Catherine of Alexandia and the paintings on the wall depicts
the her life and martyrdom.
Convent & Church Of St Francis Of Assisi
One of the beautiful architecture of the Old Goa, has carved and gilded
carve work. The superb ornamental screen behind the altar, old murals
depicting scenes from the life of St Francis and a floor made of carved
gravestones complete with family coats of arms dating back to the early 16th
century. There is small archaeological museum behind the church that houses
sculpture fragments from Hindu temple sites and stone vetal images from the
animist cult.
Basilica Of Bom Jesus
The basilica is not only famous in Goa but throughout the Roman Catholic
world. It has huge significance because it preserve the tomb and mortal
remains of St Francis Xavier, who in 1541 was given the task of spreading
Christianity among the people of Portuguese colonies in the East. One of the
oldest churches in Goa, is magnificent for its simplicity.
Church Of St Cajetan
It is a replica of St Peter's in Rome, this church is built by Italian
mendicants who were sent by Pope Urban III preach Chritianity in the modern
day Hyderabad. Due to strong Muslim influence it was impossible for them to
work in Golconda (near Hyderabad), so ultimately settled in Old Goa in 1640.
The construction began in 1655.
Other Historic Sites
Other important tourist attractions are Viceroy's Arch, Adil Shah's Palace
gateway, Chapel of St Anthony, Chapel of St Catherine, Convent & Church
of St John and Church of Our Lady of the Rosary.
Excursions
Old Goa is an excellent place for some good excursions. There are many near
by attractions such as Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, the fascinating Calangute
beach, and scenic Dona Paula Beach.
