Things To Do in Old Goa
Old Goa, a picturesque village situated 9 km away from Panjim, was the former capital of Goa. If you are a history buff or like to visit quaint places immersed in their culture, then Old Goa, also known as Velha Goa, is the perfect place to witness old architecture and culture. You can even take a leisurely walk along the village and soak in the sites of the beautiful old churches, convents, greenery, and the majestic Atal Sethu bridge. Exploring the beauty of this place and learning its history is sure to take a day or half a day. A tour of Old Goa allures you with the promise to take you back in time and that it does.
A Walk Back in Time
Some of the oldest churches in Goa like Basilica de Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and Church of St Francis de Assisi, are located in the vicinity of each other. The Basilica de Bom Jesus, an iconic monument, has been recognised as a pilgrimage centre and is home to the tomb and mortal remains of St Francis Xavier. Noted as one of the seven wonders of Portuguese origin, this Jesuit church was built in 1605 using Baroque architecture. The mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier are placed atop the mausoleum in a silver casket. The relics of this saint, displayed every ten years, attract throngs of devotees. Additionally, the walls of the church are adorned with paintings of scenes taken from the life of St. Francis Xavier.
Explore the history of these well-renowned monuments with the help of local guides that are available on-site. Or make it a more intimate affair by exploring it with your group of friends or family with rented scooters or a car. Alternatively, you can even opt for an electric bike tour. Ensure your body is covered appropriately while entering these religious institutions. Please note, entry to each church might cost you a nominal fee.
Preserved Cultural Heritage
The Archaeological Museum is situated in the convent next to the church of St. Francis of Assisi. The museum is divided into eight galleries that house important artifacts of Portuguese rule in India. One of the key treasures on display in this museum is considered to be the portraits of the old and main Viceroys and Governors of Goa. Spend some time perusing the museum’s exquisite collection of religious artifacts, stamps, and other such treasures. The extensive collection represents Portuguese rule in Goa. In tandem with this, these artifacts also date back to the pre-historic, early historic, and late medieval periods of Goan history. The museum is open to the public every day except Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm. So, plan your day trip accordingly.
Another must-visit in Old Goa is the Museum of Christian Art or MoCA, established in 1994. It is situated within the 17th-century Convent of Santa Monica, next to the St. Augustine Tower. The museum, set up in collaboration with the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation of Portugal and the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) in New Delhi, depicts the rich European and Indian culture. The museum’s prized collection, dating back to the 16th century, was created by extremely skilled local craftsmen in different styles. They ensured each display incorporated accents of Portuguese influence as well as powerful Indian artistic and cultural symbolism. Ultimately, after 20 years, the museum underwent upgradation and modernization plans for five years and was reopened to the public in May 2022.
Love for Nature
This scenic land of Old Goa has more than just beautiful churches and convents. While appreciating Old Goa for its centuries-old history and architecture, it also boasts of painting a picturesque background to these ruins with clear flowing waters and immense greenery along the river bank. Nature and adventure lovers are sure to find it a treat to their senses. With Old Goa situated on the banks of River Mandovi, there are a few brief boat tours conducted as well. Commencing at the Old Goa boat jetty, the tour offers a one-hour cruise of the Mandovi River with drinks, snacks, and music onboard as it crosses Divar Island. Take a detour from visiting churches all day and take in the sights of what nature has to offer. Make sure to follow all safety instructions provided by the boat tour operator to avail the best experience.
Be sure to pencil in a tour to explore a village set back in time. Vacationing in Goa does not just have to live up to the stereotype of parties and beaches. Dedicate a day to visiting offbeat places and truly experience what Goa has to offer. Here are some forts to add to your itinerary, too.
