Goa’s Historical Places of Interest A global tourist destination, Goa is certainly the entertainment capital of India. Blessed with innumerable attractions, from beaches to exotic biodiversity, historic sites to flea markets, this place is flocked by thousands of travellers from India as well as from the world over. With a long coastline, beaches are indeed the foremost attraction of this Indian state. However, there is much to explore here in terms of past glory and historical significance. Catholic religious buildings, imposing forts and other heritage sites take you on a journey back in time. The historic city of Old Goa is now an archaeological site and the remains of the city, its churches and convents are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Basilica of Bom Jesus Church: The Basilica of Bom Jesus located on the banks of Mandovi River in Old Goa is one of the most famous churches in Old Goa. It contains the mortal remains of St. Framcis Xavier. Built of black laterite stone, the church is fine example of Baroque architecture in India.
Church of St. Francis Assisi: This famous church was built by the Portuguese in 1661 AD. The main entrance is in Manuline style while the main altar is Baroque with Corinthian features. The interiors as well as the exteriors are equally impressive with many distinguished features. The convent, adjacent to the church, houses a museum. It contains artifacts, paintings, and sculptures that depict Goa’s enviable history.
St. Cathedral Church: Also known as Se Cathedral, this 16th century monument is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. It is built in the Portuguese-Gothic style with Tuscan exterior and Corinthian interior. There are 15 altars in the Cathedral and the highly impressive grand alter is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria.
Aguada Fort: Built with an objective to protect Old Goa from probable attacks, this majestic fort is the best-preserved Portuguese bastion in Goa. It was built in 1612 at the shore of the Mandovi River. The fort is now a famous tourist spot and offers spectacular views of the Arabian Sea.
Cabo de Rama Fort: With an area of nearly 180,000 square meters, it is the largest forts of Goa. The cape and the fort are named after Rama, the hero of the ancient Hindu epic Ramayana. Although it was primarily built by Hindu rulers, it was later acquired by various rulers – Mughals, Portuguese and British. Other interesting places from the pages of the past include Alorna Fort, Our Lady of Rosary Church, Lamgau Caves and Terekhol Fort. To know more about Goa, find Cheap flights to Goa from UK OR Cheap Tickets to Goa.