Old Goa is quintessentially linked with the famous Basilica of Bom Jesus, where are preserved the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier, and the magnificent white church across from it, Se Cathedral. But did you know there are other monuments around Old Goa thoroughly worth checking out and that they are in close proximity to the Basilica?
Here are five such monuments around the famous Basilica that are heritage monuments and have an interesting history.
1. . CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY
The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, situated on a hill west of the Basilica of Bom Jesus, was built between 1544 and 1549 by the Portuguese Afonso de Albuquerque to fulfill a vow he made during his battle with the forces of Adil Shah.
This church is one of the only surviving examples of Manueline architecture in Goa—a style popular in Portugal during the early 16th century under King Manuel I.
Originally belonging to the Dominicans, the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary stands as a unique blend of Portuguese design and Goan heritage, showcasing ornate facades and intricate detailing characteristic of the Manueline style.
2. RUINS OF THE CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF GRACE (ST AUGUSTINE’S TOWER)
St Augustine’s Tower is one of the most iconic ruins in Old Goa, standing as a remnant of the once grand Church of Our Lady of Grace, built by Portuguese Augustinian friars in 1602. Originally part of a massive complex, the 46-metre-tall bell tower is the only structure still standing today after the rest of the church was abandoned and eventually fell to ruin in the 19th century.
This four-storey tower, which housed one of Goa’s largest bells, is known for its haunting beauty and historical significance, drawing visitors for its Gothic arches, intricate designs and panoramic view. Today, it serves as a reminder of Goa’s bygone era of Portuguese influence and architectural grandeur, offering an evocative glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
3. CHAPEL OF ST CATHERINE
The Chapel of St Catherine in Old Goa marks the historic site where Afonso de Albuquerque defeated Adil Shah’s forces and claimed Goa for Portugal on November 25, 1510. This small chapel was built to commemorate the victory, symbolising the start of the Portuguese rule in the region. It was constructed in the simple yet elegant Mannerist style, reflecting the early colonial architecture of the Portuguese in Goa.
The chapel’s significance is twofold: it serves as a historical marker for a pivotal moment in Goa’s history and as a religious site honouring St Catherine, whose feast day coincides with the day of Albuquerque’s victory. Today, it stands as a modest but meaningful reminder of Old Goa’s past and the cultural and historical layers that shape its legacy.
4. ARCH OF THE VICEROYS
The Viceroy’s Arch in Old Goa is a notable historical landmark that symbolises Goa’s colonial heritage. Built in 1599 by Francisco da Gama, the great-grandson of Vasco da Gama, this archway served as a ceremonial entrance for Portuguese viceroys and officials arriving by sea. Positioned at the end of a jetty along the River Mandovi, it was the official entry point into Old Goa.
The structure is built in laterite stone and has a distinctive statue of Vasco da Gama on the side facing the river, commemorating his role in establishing Portuguese rule in India. On the other side, it features a statue of St Catherine, as it is believed that Old Goa was liberated from Muslim rulers on her feast day.
Over the years, the arch has been restored several times to preserve its structure and design, standing today as a testament to Goa’s past and the cultural intersections that shaped it.
For visitors, the Viceroy’s Arch offers not only historical significance but also beautiful views of the river and Old Goa’s vibrant landscape, making it an enriching stop on your tour.
5. ADIL SHAH’S PALACE GATE
The Adil Shah Palace Gate in Old Goa is a historic remnant of the palace once belonging to Sultan Adil Shah, the ruler of Bijapur, before the Portuguese took over Goa in the 16th century. This gateway is all that remains of the palace, which the Portuguese later repurposed for their administrative use, marking the transition from Muslim to Portuguese rule in Goa. The gate’s intricate design reflects the architectural style of the period and serves as a significant reminder of Goa’s pre-colonial history.