Do you know that North Goa is not only well-known for its stunning beaches or vibrant nightlife? Isn’t this fact surprising? Well, North Goa is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage!
From ancient forts to centuries-old churches and temples, North Goa is home to several historical landmarks that tell the story of the state’s colonial past and ancient traditions.
So, are you a history enthusiast? Or someone curious to learn about the region’s heritage, there are various historical places in North Goa that are worth exploring on your trip.
| Book Your Stay With White Flower Cottages? Call/Whatsapp: +91 9359983588
Let’s take a glimpse into the region’s vibrant historical places in our blog!
Must-Visit Historical Places in North Goa
Here are some of the top historical places that you must add to your North Goa itinerary:
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
The first word that will pop out of your mouth when you see this church will be ‘Wow.’ Well, that’s the beauty of the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception! Built in the 16th century, this Portuguese-styled church with its sparkling white color walls is one of the top places to visit in North Goa.
The interiors of this church are decorated without any intricate or colored details, which creates a calming atmosphere. The skills of craftsmen can be seen at the altar and sub-altar. The background of this church gives you some amazing backdrops for your pictures; thus, this is also known as one of the best photography places in North Goa.
- Location: 62HW+GXR, Veroda, Quepem, Goa 403705
- Timings: 07:30 AM – 06:00 PM
- Time Required: 30 to 45 minutes
Basilica of Bom Jesus
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that comes under one of the top attractions in Goa that you must include in your itinerary. This church is dedicated to St. Francis Xavier, and it contains his sacred remains, who died on a sea voyage in 1552. It has been said that the body of Xavier has been transferred to Goa, and it was as fresh as the day it was buried.
The body of the saint lies in an airtight glass coffin, which is placed inside a silver casket. Once every decade, the body is allowed to be viewed by people who visit this holy place. The museum is also near the church that has paintings on the life of St. Francis. It is one of the must-visit places in Goa, especially if you are a history buff.
- Location: Old Goa Road, Old Goa, Goa 403402
- Timings: 09:00 AM – 06:30 PM
- Time Required: 1-1.5 hours
Shri Mahalaxmi Temple
Shri Mahalaxmi Temple, situated in North Goa, is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s wife, Mahalaxmi. One of the unique features that sets this temple apart is that the Devi wears a linga on her head. The idol of Mahalaxmi even has four arms that hold a sickle, a club, a dagger, and a vessel containing Prasad and flowers.
Besides the main idol of Mahalaxmi, there’s another idol of Devi, which is made up of panchaloha. The Sabha mandap boasts a gallery of 18 images that depict several scenes from the Bhagavata. Other than that, the walls of Sabha mandap are decorated with beautiful paintings of Lord Hanuman, Lord Garuda, and Lord Ganesha.
- Location: FRWG+8J7, situated next to Mushtifund Saunthan Panaji, Dada Vaidhya Road, Panaji, Goa 403001
- Timings: 06:00 AM – 08:30 PM
- Time Required: 20 to 30 minutes
Se Cathedral
The Se Cathedral is one of the most significant historical landmarks in North Goa. Built in the 16th century, it is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. Its structure is an example of Portuguese colonial architecture and is known for its impressive size, making it one of the largest churches in Asia.
The cathedral’s beautiful facade and the beautiful bell tower add to its overall beauty. The Se Cathedral holds great religious importance, which reflects Goa’s colonial past and rich history. It is also considered one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that continues to attract people with its historical importance.
- Location: GW37+H3J, Old Goa, Goa 403402
- Timings: 07:30 AM – 06:00 PM
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Fort Aguada
Fort Aguada is one of the oldest forts that is known for its meeting of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea. The main highlight of the fort is its four-story lighthouse, which is also known as one of the best sunset points in North Goa. Earlier, it was used as Aguada jail, which protected freedom fighters.
Basically, this fort was built by the Portuguese rulers, and you can notice the stunning Italian design of its walls. The fort holds a glorious history and plays an integral role in conveying its importance to the generations. You can also see the gunpowder room in the upper fort, and there were 200 cannons installed for the defence of locals.
- Location: Fort Aguada Rd., Aguada Fort Area, Candolim, Goa 403515
- Timings: 09:30 AM – 06:00 PM
- Time Required: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Church of St. Francis of Assisi
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi is one of the top historical spots in Goa that you must visit while on your trip. Known as a Roman Catholic church, the convent of St. Francis was established by eight Franciscan monks who visited Goa in 1517. They worked together to build the chapel, which was later transformed into a church.
The structure of the church that you see today was built in 1616. But, later in 1964, this Goan church was then converted into a museum by the Archaeological Survey of India. And yet today, it houses some of the remains of the church, and there are several paintings of Hindu sculptures.
- Location: Off National Highway 4, Old Goa, Goa 403402
- Timings: 07:30 AM – 06:30 PM
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Shri Ramnath Temple
Shri Ramnath Temple is one of the famous temples in Goa that is a pilgrimage site for Hindus. Dedicated to Lord Ramnath, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, this temple is believed to have been built in the 18th century. It was originally constructed during the reign of the Kadamba dynasty and later reconstructed by the Saraswat Brahmins.
The temple features exquisite Goan temple architecture with a beautifully adorned shrine. The temple is known for hosting the annual Ramnath Deva festival. The Shri Ramnath Temple is an important cultural and spiritual landmark in Goa that attracts both devotees and history lovers.
- Location: 9XXJ+H8F, Ramnathim, Ponda, Bandiwada, Goa 403401
- Timings: 06:00 AM – 09:00 PM
- Time Required: 20 to 30 minutes
Mae De Deus Church
The Mae De Deus Church is a neo-Gothic architecture that leaves everyone stunned with the beauty it holds. The lush greenery surrounding the church and the positive vibe it has further enhance the overall beauty of this church.
As you move from the exteriors to the interiors of the church, you will definitely say that it is a worth-visiting spot in Goa. It houses the miraculous statue of Mae De Deus, who brought the church back to life from ruins. With its carved ornamentation on the ceiling and walls, this church will make you praise its beauty.
- Location: GQWP+R47, Chogm Rd., Muddavaddi, Saligao, Goa 403511
- Timings: 07:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Time Required: 2 Hours
Monastery of St. Augustine
The Monastery of St. Augustine is a historical site and a UNESCO World Heritage Monument in Goa. Built in the early 1600s by Augustinian monks, this monastery once housed a large community of missionaries. The stunning ruins of this monastery reflect the grandeur of Portuguese colonial architecture.
The complex of this monastery includes a church, a chapel, and living quarters for the monks. Over time, it was abandoned, and today you can only witness the monastery’s bell tower. It holds immense historical value and offers insight into Goa’s colonial past.
- Location: Old Goa, Near Holy Hill, Panjim, Goa, 403402
- Timings: 08:30 AM – 05:30 PM
- Time Required: 2 Hours
Reis Magos Fort
Reis Magos Fort is a historic gem in North Goa that was built in the 16th century. The fort offers panoramic views of the Mandovi River and surrounding areas. The fort has witnessed several important events, including serving as a military stronghold, prison, and more.
It features impressive architecture with sturdy walls, watchtowers, and a chapel dedicated to St. Jerome. This fort underwent extensive restoration efforts, and now it is open to the public and is grabbing the attention of visitors with its rich history, stunning location, and cultural significance. It is considered as one of Goa’s most important historical landmarks.
- Location: Nerul – Reis Margos Rd., beside Three Kings Church, Bardez, Verem, Nerul, Goa 403114
- Timings: 09:30 AM – 05:00 PM
- Time Required: 2 Hours
Wrapping Up
That’s a wrap for this blog!
North Goa is not only for enjoying vibrant nightlife and lively parties, but there are also several historical sites that offer a unique glimpse into the region’s past.
Exploring these historical places in North Goa will allow you to connect with the rich heritage and cultural significance that has shaped Goa over the centuries.
As all these historical places are in North Goa, you can make your trip more convenient by choosing White Flower Cottages as your stay in Vagator.
Known as the best resort in North Goa, our property offers top-notch amenities and close proximity to major attractions. It is the ideal place to relax after a day of sightseeing and witnessing the history of North Goa.
So, make sure to include these historical places in your Goa trip itinerary!
| Contact us:+91 9359983588
