Old Goa
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Why
Old Goa (Velha Goa)
is special
It is home to dozens of historical religious structures that recall Portugal's grand colonial past.
Top 3
Old Goa attractions
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Draws Christian pilgrims from afar because it contains the remains of Saint Francis Xavier, the noted missionary and Jesuit Order co-founder.
Se Cathedral
Also known as St Catherine's Cathedral. It's the largest of the religious structures.
St Francis of Assisi Church
The convent at the rear of the church is now an archaeological museum.
Old Goa
history in brief
15th century
It was the auxiliary capital of the powerful Bijapur Kingdom. Today, virtually everything is crumpled ruins.
16th century
The Portuguese conquered the city and it became the colonial capital. Population exceeded 200,000 and the municipality gained its "Lisbon of the East" moniker.
17th century
The immense city was abandoned (epidemics were a reason). Nearly all the structures eventually deteriorated. Today, only a handful remain in good condition.
20th century
Goa became an Indian state in 1961.
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