Goa Vacation
Although Goa is India’s smallest state in terms of size, it is the fourth largest in terms of population. It is bordered by the Arabian Sea on its west coast, making it the prime spot for enjoying the beach and a vast array of flora and fauna. The Portuguese colonized Goa in the early 16th century and maintained the colony for approximately 450 years, making it one of the longest held colonial possessions in the world. It was taken over by India in 1961.
Fast Facts
- Country: India
- Language Spoken: Konkani, also Marathi and Hindi
- Currency: Indian rupee
- Country Code: 91
- Time Zone: IST
- Average Climate: Average temperature between 67.96°F - 81.56°F. Monsoon season runs from June to September.
Attractions
- Old Goa: Once considered the richest and most beautiful city in Asia, the city was destroyed by cholera and malaria in the mid 1700s.1Declared a World Heritage Site tourists can catch a glimpse of the splendor that once existed.
- The Arch of the Viceroys: Located in Old Goa, the arch was built in 1597 to mark Vasco de Gama's arrival in India.1
- The Church of St. Cajetan: Dating back to 1651, this church was built by Italian friars of the Theatine order, who modeled it after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.1 A crypt, where embalmed Portuguese governors were kept before they were shipped back to Portugal, is located beneath the church. Three long-forgotten bodies were discovered in 1992.1
- St. Catherine's Cathedral: The cathedral took almost 80 years to build and is reportedly larger than any church in Portugal. Inside the church is what is referred to as the Miraculous Cross, said to have been brought from a Goan village after a vision of Christ was seen on it.1
- The Basilica of Bom: Was built between 1594 and 1605 to serve as the eternal resting place of Saint Francis Xavier. The body of the saint, which is still well preserved, lies in a casket next to the altar.1
- Church and Convent of St. Monica Christon: An image of the crucified Christ at the site was reported to have regularly bled, spoke, and opened its eyes.1
Mahalo Suggests
If planning a trip, please see Goa Hotels, Goa Restaurants and Goa Tours.
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