The coastal state is filled with heritage monuments
There is a lot more to Goa than the white sand, clear beach waters, palm trees, and lush green. The coastal town of Goa has a huge history that reflects in the quaint Portuguese houses, ancient churches, heritage homes, forts, and monuments. These historical structures are of great importance to the state as they are more than 100-years-old. As a result, many have been protected by UNESCO. So here are some of the best UNESCO-protected heritage sites in Goa.
The Basilica of Bom Jesus
A part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site (Churches & Convents of Goa), this church is the oldest and the most visited heritage site in Goa. This centuries-old church holds religious value for it is home to the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. These have been preserved in a silver casket and are kept for public viewing every 10 years. It is also called St. Francis Xavier's Tomb. The interiors of the church entail marble floorings and gilded altars. The construction is that of a Portuguese colonial style that started in 1594 and was completed in 1605. Also, the church is the first Minor Basilica in India.
St. Augustine Tower or the Church Of St. Augustin
Church and Monastery of Augustin in Old Goa is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site (Churches & Convents of Goa). The construction started in 1572 by 12 Augustines at the time when they arrived in the city of Goa and was completed in 1602 AD. Also, they built a convent besides the church. However, after the Portuguese government imposed a ban against the Augustines, the entire premises constructed by them was left deserted. There are ruins of 46 m high Bell Tower but no bell. The bell is presently in the church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception which was placed in 1871 AD and continues to function properly.
Chapel of St. Catherine
This chapel is dedicated to St. Catherine. It was first built in 1510 and then rebuilt in 1952. Now, there remain only the ruins of the church and it is not functional anymore. However, what has remained behind is beautiful for the Gothic architecture it still holds.
Other UNESCO protected monuments and sites in Goa are Se Cathedral, Mormugao Fort, Cabo De Rama Fort, The Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi, ShriMahalaxmi Temple, ShriShantadurga Temple, Chapora Fort, Reis Magos Fort, ShriMangueshi Temple, Aguada Fort, Our Lady of Rosary, and Church of Saint Cajetan.
