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Commonly thought of as the tranquil beach escape to beat all others, Goa has plenty more to offer in terms of its rich and varied history. A Portuguese colony for 500 years, there’s evidence of Goa’s exciting past in its UNESCO-awarded churches, coastal forts and museums found all over the state.
If you’re looking for goa holidays involving more than sand and scuba diving, here are five of the best heritage attractions in this lovely part of Western India.
Margao
Although it’s barely touched by visitors, a cultural tourist in Goa would be wise to include Margao. The centre is a cosmopolitan mix of farmer’s markets and European churches, fishing beaches and Portugese villas. A short distance away is the village of Chandor, home to the Perreira Braganza mansion, an impressive 16th century example of colonial architecture with a colourful story.
Churches of Old Goa
Old Goa was once a proud city, and the monuments to its past are some of the largest Catholic structures in this part of Asia. The unique design of the Chapel of St Anthony, the gigantic tower that remains of St Augustine’s Church and the commanding walls of the Basilica of the Born Jesus stand as testament to the spread of European religious and architectural ideas in this country.
Fort Aguada
The only fort unconquered by invaders, the site at Fort Aguada now comprises a modern-day prison and is also the best-preserved of the Portugese forts you can visit in Goa. The 19th century lighthouse which stands here is the oldest of its kind on the continent and offers truly panoramic views from the top of its four storeys.
Ancestral Goa
This created village in Laoulim is fascinating way of exploring Goa’s native past. A living museum surrounded by rare wildife, the streets themselves house artisan workshops, an old marketplace and traditional Goan liquor at the Traverena. Visit on a feast day for lively celebrations and to taste some of the local specialities.
Archaeological Museum & Portrait Gallery
Housed in an old Franciscan monastery, this museum brings together collections from both Goa’s colonial and ancestral years. There are around 8,000 items on display in the seven galleries of sculptures, anthropological artefacts and portraits of the Portugese viceroys. The stone idols from Goa’s ancient civilisations in the Sculpture Gallery are one of the must-see highlights.
There are signs of Goa’s history wherever you care to look, whether it be in the rosewood carvings of a colonial dwelling or in the remote forest temples from the early Kadamba period. The palm trees and crystal-clear seas certainly have their merits but the real Goa is found in its cultural highlights.
