Entering Old Goa

Goa is famous not only for its beaches, but also for its interesting history.

Up until 1961, Goa was a Portuguese territory (until the Indian Army invaded) and this influence is clearly felt in the architecture.


So after wandering through Panjim, we headed towards Old Goa.

Old Goa was the original capital of Portuguese controlled Goa. Apparently during its peak it was the largest "European" city in the world, larger than Lisbon, larger than London.

Arriving there on the bus, it became fairly apparent that this city was indeed once something to behold. The first thing we decided to see was the Church of St Francis Assisi.

This was more than a surprise.

This was an amazing church. Gilded in gold, it would rival even the largest cathedrals I had seen when I travelled through Europe.

The intricacies of the interior was a clear demonstration of the oppulence and wealth that this city must have had.