Must-Visit Historical Places in Goa

If you are a history buff who is interested in different types of architecture as well, be sure to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus (do visit even if you are not that into history and architecture). What’s so special about the place? It is one of the best examples of Baroque architecture and is a marvel hailing from the by-gone Portuguese era. Another attraction of the place is the remains of St. Francis Xavier that still lie here. Once you enter, you will see a host of paintings capturing the major life events of St. Francis. If you want to stand inside one of the most historical monuments of Goa, do visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus. The most intriguing bit? St. Francis’s body is kept in a glass coffin and is out for the public to view every ten years. Feel free to plan your trip accordingly!

Surrounded by the glittering Mandovi River, the island of St. Estevam is yet another one of the many historical sites in Goa. You must pay a visit to the isle and see the fort and the church that it houses. The fort is nestled at the top of a hillock and is accessible simply via a flight of stairs. Once you reach the spot, you can offer prayers to a shrine dedicated to Jesus. It is not only the devotion that brings visitors here. It is also the Corinthian architecture of the St. Estevam’s Church that impresses people. You will be amazed by the ceilings as they are beautified by floral graffiti. With seven side chapels, you will have enough to explore inside the vast Church and find a pinch of the past at every turn. Also, a picture in front of the statue of St. Stephen will make for the perfect snapshot.

One of the famous monuments of Goa has to be the Aguada Fort. In present times, the structure that is serving as the Central Jail may not seem something so historical. But if you turn the pages almost four centuries back, you will see how the Portuguese had built this for their protection. Another fun fact for your inner history buff? The name of the fort comes from the freshwater spring present within the fort. You can walk up to the hilltop and witness the most spectacular sunset, with the waves of the Sinquerim Beach as a backdrop. If you still have some time left on your hand, visit the Church of St. Lawrence, the patron of sailors.

After you are done marvelling at the Aguada Fort, you can walk a few paces to reach the Sinquerim Fort. This fort was originally made for defence purposes and for harbouring ships coming in from Europe. Even if you are not much fascinated by history, you will certainly be mesmerised by the sheer elegance of the structure. Many photography enthusiasts are attracted to the fort. Wondering why? Because the fort can offer some unique frames that you wouldn’t find anywhere else. Make sure to tick Sinquerim Fort off the list of historic monuments in Goa.

A church or two always makes its way in the tales of Goa. One such church that boasts of being one of the largest historic monuments in Goa is Se Cathedral. If you are ever in Old Goa and hear a bell ring that has an especially rich tone to it, be sure that it is coming from this marvellous structure. The history behind this combination of Tuscan and Corinthian styled structure is the victory of the Portuguese. They had won over a Muslim army, and that day happened to be on the Feast of St. Catherine. So, this majestic white church was made in honour of her. The striking feature that you should surely explore is the 15 altars inside, dedicated to Our Lady of Three Needs, Our Lady of Anguish or Our Lady of Hope. Next time you are in Goa and want to witness a prime example of Portuguese-Gothic architecture, head here!

Ever wondered where the three friends from ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ were sitting, overlooking the sea, surrounded by what seemed like archaic ruins? Well, look no further! It was none other than the Chapora Fort located in Bardez. Made with beautiful red laterite stones, the fort had seen a lot of hands exchanging ownership, from the Marathas to the Portuguese. Today it remains to be one of the best historic monuments in Goa. Do visit the Chapora Fort for its old-age charm and the stunning views of Vagator and Anjuna Beach.

Located near the Basilica of Bom Jesus, the remains of the once majestic St. Augustine Tower stand tall, till this date. Don’t let the dilapidated ruins fool you from the fact that a long and rich history surrounds the tower. Due to an unfortunate ban on the Augustinians by the Portuguese, this place of worship was abandoned. While you walk towards one of the most famous historic monuments in Goa, you will see the towering structure from some distance. Today all the remains are maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. Fun fact? You can also be a part of one of the services by the Archdiocese of Goa.

When you finally get a chance to visit Goa next time, remember to keep some time aside to visit these historical monuments. You (or your camera) will not be disappointed!