Goa - Part 5 - Exploring the Colonial Monuments of Old Goa

As mentioned in my earlier blog (link), we set off to explore old Goa for a half day tour from Ponda. Old Goa is a historical city located in North Goa and is famous for its oldest churches and chapels.

From Ponda KTC bus stand, we took local bus to Old Goa. We got down at Mahatma Gandhi Chowk, Old Goa which is the prominent bus stop. From here you can explore Old Goa by foot as all historical landmarks are close-by.




 

Hatkatro Khambo


Once you enter Old Goa from Kadamba bypass, this Pillar cannot be missed. ‘Hatkatro Khambo’ literally meaning a pillar where hands were chopped(In Konkani, Hath=hand, Katro = cut, Khambo = pillar). This pic speaks the sad tale of Goan acquisition by the Portuguese where many Hindus were tied to this pillar and the hands of those were cut who were not ready to get converted to Christianity during the Portuguese Rule over Goa. But it was sad to see the condition of this monument today as there is no fence around this pillar to protect this monument neither there was any board explaining the history of this.




 

Basilica of Bom Jesus


This is one of the most famous tourist attractions of Old Goa. This was built in the 16th Century and is a World Heritage Monument. Its iconic brick colored monument just cannot be missed while driving along the Old Goa road.





 



We then crossed the road and walked into another area having a cluster of archeological monuments. There is a map as well to guide people towards each monument. 





Se Cathedral


This is Old Goa’s Famous Landmark and it dates back to the 16th century. Also this is the largest church in Asia is still operational. Please note that in this strict dress code rules are enforced to enter this church. Also photography inside the church is not allowed. But its totally worth visiting. 






 

Archeological Museum


This museum is located right next to Se Cathedral and it hosts pieces from early historic, prehistoric and late medieval period. You need to take entry tickets to explore this and photography is not allowed inside the museum. 

 



 

Still there were some more monuments  to explore in Old Goa but we had to head back to Ponda for the evening Pallaki Utsav of Goddess Mahalaxmi. So we hopped onto a bus and headed back to Ponda. But if you are an admirer of colonial monuments and their architecture then you can easily spend a day here exploring old churches and chapels in Old Goa. 


Upon reaching Ponda KTC bus stand, we also got an opportunity to visit a very uniquely built mosque. 


Safa Masjid


This is believed to be Goa's oldest mosque. It is a protected monument declared by ASI(Archeological Survey Of India). During the Portuguese invasion, while most of the mosques in Goa were destroyed, this one remained unharmed and has has retained its charm its today. This mosque was built by Ibrahim Adil Shah in 1560. Safa in Arabic means "Pure" and this mosque rightly justifies it. The single chambered mosque has one prayer room. But the main attraction of this place is the huge tank with turquoise waters showing visitors the reflection of mosque and the lush greenery around. 







We then hopped onto our bus to Bandevade and were on time to evening Palaquin utsav. 


This was our last day in Goa and I am glad that this time I could explore this place from a traveler’s lens. Everybody knows Goa for its famous beaches, historic churches, flea markets and off course lip smacking sea food, but very less people know the religious, historical and offbeat side of Goa which I have tried to explore during my this visit to Goa. And I hope my blog helps you in planning your next Goa trip.  



Other pages from my Goa travel diary


Goa - Part 1 - Exploring Vasco, Port City of Goa

Goa - Part 2 - Zambaulim, Lord Damodar's Holy Abode 

Goa - Part 3 - Exploring Hinterland of Rivona and Salaulim Dam

Goa - Part 4 - Ponda, The Holy Town of Goa

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