Know the bylanes and landmarks of Sao Tome in Panjim

STEP BACK IN TIME

The tiny ward of Sao Tome just north of Fontainhas, facing the riverfront, is dense with history. Take this walking tour to find out more.

OLD PATTO BRIDGE

Start off at this extension of the Ponte de Linhares causeway, which links Panjim to Ribandar.

OBRAS PUBLICAS

Around the corner, you’ll spot artist Solomon Souza’s mural of Goan writer, dramatist and poet Vishnu Surya Wagh. It is the only remaining vestige of the 19th century, demolished, Public Works (Obras Publicas) building on Ourem creek.

COVERED PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS

Stroll under the columned pedestrian pathways framed by balconies overtop, a legacy of European architectural influence.

PANJIM POST OFFICE

Just ahead is the city’s main post office, first opened by the Portuguese in 1854, now replete with a 24/7 postal service, an ATM and even a fountain in its courtyard.

CASA DA MOEDA

Across from the post office is the ‘House of Coins’ or ‘Mint House’ which was built in 1834 and the place where coins were minted until 1841.

TOBACCO SQUARE

In front of the Mint House is a fenced off patch of grass that was once called ‘Largo do Estanco.’ This spot marks the wholesale depot and trading centre for tobacco in colonial times.

STATUE OF DR M C DIAS

The square has a statue of Dr Miguel Caetano Dias, a prominent surgeon and director of health services in Goa and Goa Medical College, during the Portuguese rule.

CAPELA DE SAO TOME

Just ahead is the chapel of St Thomas, patron saint of architects, carpenters and masons, also known as the apostle of India. The chapel took 4 years to complete and was blessed in 1849.

RUA SAO TOME

By the side of the chapel is Rua Sao Tome, just one of the narrow lanes that form a part of this quarter, filled with colourful houses, overhanging balconies and small altars with mosaic tiles mounted on walls.

MERMAID GARDEN

Walk back up Rua Sao Tome and a little further up to your left, sandwiched between petrol pumps and facing the riverfront is the Mermaid garden, built in 1941. The tour ends here.

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