Here's where you can marvel at the Goa of old

Evelyn Siqueira

STORIES OF THE PAST

Discover Goa's rich history through its ancient landmarks, each of which has its own story to tell.

Goa | Portuguese | cannon | fort | Photo: Viresh Parsekar

FORTS

Goa is home to several forts that give you a feel of the fascinating ancient defence systems. Many of these forts date back to the 1500s, offering a historical experience like no other.

North Goa | Fort Corjuem | Konkan | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

CHURCHES

While Old Goa’s churches are famously UNESCO World Heritage Sites, gorgeous centuries-old churches are also scattered across villages and even cities, including Panjim, Mapusa and Margao.

Old Goa | Church of St Francis of Assisi | UNESCO World Heritage Site

PETROGLYPHS

Petroglyphs, which are basically ancient rock art, found in South Goa are roughly 4,000 to 6,000-years-old. These carvings from the Neolithic Period give valuable insights into the region’s early civilisation.

Goa | Curdi Village | Usgalimal Rock Art | Petroglyphs

BRIDGES

Built in 1633, the Ponte Conde de Linhares, commonly known as the Ribandar Causeway, is an engineering marvel, designed and built by the Jesuits.

Goa | Ribandar causeway | Ponte Conde de Linhares | Panjim

MANSIONS

Take a walk back in time and explore the lifestyle of a bygone era at Goa's majestic colonial mansions, which are 400 to 500-years-old, and even older.

Houses of Goa | Braganza House | South Goa | heritage | Photo: Vrutha Karmali

MUSEUMS

What better place to discover olden-day Goa than visiting museums such as the Museum of Christian Art (Old Goa) and the Goa State Museum, which are housed in centuries-old buildings such as the Convent of Santa Monica and Adil Shah Palace.

Goa | Adil Shah Palace | Museum| Sculptures | | Photo: Roxanne D'silva

NEXT: Tiracol Fort in Goa is where heritage meets relaxation

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