Old Goa is the town that served as the Portuguese colonial capital for three and a half centuries. It is home to some of the best known churches and historic monuments of Goa and has been declared a world heritage site by the UNESCO. Old Goa came up after the defeat of Adil Shah by Admiral Afonso de Albuquerque in 1510. Soon, the missionaries followed and the religious buildings came up.
Attractions:
Churches : the churches of old Goa are among the best known tourist attractions in Old Goa. These churches reflect the evolution of Christianity in Goa and must be visited during a tour of north Goa. The important churches in Old Goa are -
Basilica of Bom Jesus : this basilica is dedicated to baby Jesus. Featuring magnificent baroque architecture, this world heritage site is one of the prime attractions in north Goa. The church is especially important since it houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa. His body is brought out on the occasion of 'exposition' held once every decade. This is among the holiest Christian occasions in India.
Se Cathedral : it is the seat of the Archbishop of Goa. It is one of the largest Asian churches and is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria.
Church of St Francis of Assisi and the Church of S. Caetano are the other notable churches of Old Goa.
Viceroy's Arch:
Built by Viceroy Francisco da Gama, this arch was restored in 1954. The statue of Vasco da Gama tops the arch. It is built of laterite, and all the viceroys of Goa were given the ceremonial key to Goa after a procession under the arch.
Archaeological Museum:
This museum has been set up by the archaeological Survey of India in the convent of St. Francis of Assisi. There relevant authorities 8 galleries that display paintings, and artifacts dealing with the history of Goa.
Access:
Air : Dabolim is the nearest air port (29 kilometers)
Railway : Karmali is the nearest railway station.
Road : Buses from Panaji's KTC bus stand pass old Goa en-route Ponda. Auto rickshaws, taxis and bikes are available from Panaji to old Goa. Panaji is just 9 kilometers away.
Learn more about the cities in Goa in Goatrip.com which offers online information about tourism in Goa.
| 
