Goa, through the ages, under one roof

The Goa State Museum, housed in the historic Adil Shah Palace, is a must visit for everyone
OLD WORLD CHARM: The Old Secretariat, also known as the Adil Shah Palace, currently houses a museum that showcases the heritage and culture of Goa.
OLD WORLD CHARM: The Old Secretariat, also known as the Adil Shah Palace, currently houses a museum that showcases the heritage and culture of Goa. Photo: Roxanne D'silva
Published on
Updated on

Panjim is much more than merely being the capital of Goa. It is also a captivating blend of the past and present, where the vibrant local culture and rich history are just waiting to be discovered.

One of the city's most significant buildings, located in the heart of Panjim, is the Adil Shah Palace.

This historic building was constructed in the 16th century by the Sultan of Bijapur, Yusuf Adil Shah, and later functioned as the headquarters of the Portuguese until their reign in Goa ended in 1961.

OLD WORLD CHARM: The Old Secretariat, also known as the Adil Shah Palace, currently houses a museum that showcases the heritage and culture of Goa.
There’s a lot you can do with mangoes in Goa

After 1961, when the Portuguese rule came to an end in Goa, the Adil Shah Palace was repurposed as the legislative and administrative headquarters of the Goa government and was known as the Secretariat.

Following the construction of the new legislative building and secretariat, the Adil Shah Palace came to be known as the Old Secretariat, and has since housed different government offices.

BACK IN TIME: The interiors and archecturial design of this  building take you to another time and place.
BACK IN TIME: The interiors and archecturial design of this building take you to another time and place.Photo: Roxanne D'silva

Today, the Old Secretariat houses two administrative government offices and a museum that showcases aspects of Goan culture, tradition and society.

The building stands as a testimony to Goa’s rich history and cultural heritage.

GOAN DRESS CODE: These statues in the museum depict  a Hindu couple in traditional attire.
GOAN DRESS CODE: These statues in the museum depict a Hindu couple in traditional attire. Photo: Roxanne D'silva

INSIDE THE MUSEUM

The museum is divided into four galleries: Glimpses of Goan Culture, Goan Expressions Through the Ages, The Portuguese Phase, and Goa’s Freedom Struggle.

In the Glimpses of Goan Culture section, you will find objects that were used in Goan homes or are connected with Goan culture. Some of the exhibits that you can see are the palanquin, palkhi, a traditionally dressed Hindu couple and much more.

THE DETAILS:  This antique display at the museum showcases the furniture style during the Portuguese era.
THE DETAILS: This antique display at the museum showcases the furniture style during the Portuguese era.Photo: Roxanne D'silva

The next exhibit, The Portuguese Phase, displays antique furniture and statues like the Pieta, Menino Jesus and old religious paintings, done on wood.

These exhibits belong to the Portuguese era and include antique furniture with intricate designs that are definitely worth checking out.

The Goa’s Freedom Struggle section contains old photographs and letters of Goan freedom fighters. These provide glimpses of how the struggle unfolded, taking you back to the early and mid-20th century, giving you an idea of a reality that would otherwise be unimaginable.

ANCIENT ART: Unique idols and inscriptions can also be seen in the museums.
ANCIENT ART: Unique idols and inscriptions can also be seen in the museums. Photo: Abigail Crasto

The last exhibit, The Goan Expression, holds some impressive rock carving and rock inscriptions that have interesting stories attached to them.
 
WHAT THE MUSEUM PROVIDES

1. Visitors get to go around the museum with a guide who explains the exhibits.
2. All the required information is provided to visitors.
3. If you need photographs of the exhibits, they will be provided by the museum.

OLD WORLD CHARM: The Old Secretariat, also known as the Adil Shah Palace, currently houses a museum that showcases the heritage and culture of Goa.
Why choose village life in Goa?

DETAILS
WHERE:
Goa State Museum, Old Secretariat, Panjim
WHEN:
Monday to Fridays (except public holidays)
TIMING: 9.30 am to 5.30 pm

Your Gateway to Goa, India

The Gomantak Times app is the best way to stay informed on anything happening in Goa. From breaking news to the top 10 restaurants to visit, GT helps you navigate your time in Goa.

Download the Gomantak Times app on your Android or IOS device.

Related Stories

No stories found.
Goa News on Gomantak Times
www.gomantaktimes.com