Old Goa: Churches, History and Museums
Accommodation in Old Goa
Old Goa was Goa’s former capital and is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and museums. For travelers interested in historic architecture and Goa’s history, the town brings together several churches, a range of museum topics, and views of the river and islands. Its attractions tell different stories: from the city’s former political role to religious art and the architectural styles of its churches.
History and Buildings
After the Portuguese takeover, Ella developed into what is now Old Goa; in 1730, the city was designated the capital of the Portuguese-occupied territories in Asia. Old Goa was Goa’s former capital. The dates and architectural features of its churches offer concrete points of reference for comparing the buildings.
In 1534, Pope Paul III elevated the Chapel of St. Catherine to cathedral status. The Church of Our Lady of Rosary dates from 1549 and is the oldest surviving church in the Manueline style. The Basilica of Bom Jesus dates from 1605, and the SĂ© Cathedral from 1652. These dates provide a timeframe for the different buildings.
Comparing the Architecture
The Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi features elements of the Manueline, Gothic and Baroque styles. Manueline features can also be found at the Church of Our Lady of Rosary, which is noted as the oldest surviving church in this style. The Chapel of St. Cajetan was designed based on the original plan for St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
The Basilica of Bom Jesus stands out for its distinctive classical orders. The Sé Cathedral also has classical orders, along with a façade in the Tuscan style. Comparing the two churches reveals both a shared architectural feature and a difference in how their façades are described.
Museums and Collections
The Archaeological Museum of Goa has eight galleries. Among its most significant objects are portraits of former viceroys and governors of Goa. The Christian Art Museum at the Convent of Santa Monica focuses on Goa’s Christian history and displays remains of old altars, religious vestments and statues. The two collections offer different perspectives: one museum draws attention to former officials, while the other focuses on Christian history and religious art.
Churches on Foot and Views
Important churches in Old Goa that can be explored on foot include St Cajetan Cathedral, St Francis of Assisi Church and Convent, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, the SĂ© Cathedral, the Church of Our Lady of Rosary, the ruins of the Church and Monastery of St Augustine, and the Chapel of St Catherine.
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount offers a different perspective. It stands on Monte, near the Church of St. Cajetan, and overlooks the Mandovi River and the islands of Divar and Chorao. At sunset, its whitewashed walls make an impressive sight. The views of the river and islands add a scenic dimension to exploring the churches and museums.
Getting There
Direct buses from Panaji or Ponda run daily and stop in front of the Basilica de Bom Jesus. Check the schedule before you travel.
When deciding what to focus on during your trip, you can choose between building history and architecture, museum collections, and the view from Monte. Old Goa brings these themes together with its history as Goa’s former capital.
Discover more destinations: Baga, Agaçaim, Corlim, Ponda, Mandrem, Bastora, Bardez, Bicholim
Return to the main travel overview: North Goa.
