Fort Aguada
Fort Aguada was built in 1612 as a reference point for ships coming from Europe. The fort has a fresh water spring, and ships would use the water from the spring. Like all fort's they guard against enemies and Aguada protected Goa against the Dutch, the walls are 5 metres high and 1.3 metres wide.
The fort itself cannot be visited as it is now Aguada prison and also residence to many foreigners, due to drug smuggling. During season their is daily boat trips from Coco beach, that takes you past the prison and the inmates are always on hand to share a wave, if you go morning time you get to see the dolphins.
So why go to Fort Aguada apart from the remains on the top of the cliff the view is simply breath-taking, sun-set is a good time to visit. The Fort stands South of Candolim, and the Shore of Mandavi River. Travel to the Fort by taxi or hire a bike, opening hours are from 9.30 to 5.30, Sunset is around 6.30, so if you plan to do both remember to leave in time before closing.
Next to Fort Aguada is the 4 story Portuguese lighthouse, built in 1864 and is the oldest of its kind in Asia.
Face of Shiva
This carving can be found in Anjuna and Vagator beach, it represents the end of vagator beach and the beginning of Anjuna beach, to the left is Vagator and to the right is Anjuna. It was carved in the seventies by an Italian man who goes by the name of Jungle.
Old Goa
Old Goa offers the best examples of Portuguese colonial architecture in India. Founded in 1510 by Alfonso de Albuquerque as the old capital, and is probably the most popular day trip for all you beach bums looking for a bit of culture. Old Goa is about 9 km east of Panjim you can travel by bus or taxi and some hotels will offer excursions. However if you prefer a personal touch contact us at goatravel and we will arrange the trip for you.
Some Churches of Interest:
Basilica of Bom Jesus built in 1605 and now declared a world Heritage monument. The Church houses the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier. See brief history below.
Close by to Basilica of Bom Jesus is the Se Cathedral built in 1510 and is dedicated to St Catherine.
Church of St Assisi is one of the major attractions, in the Church is the archeological museum. Check out the prehstoric items from a distant tribal past.
The Church of St Cajatan is another archtecturel wonder worth visiting, the structure of the Church is based on the St. Peters Basilca in Rome. An Italian archtect designed the Church in 1651. Now there is a theological collage in the Church.
Our lady of the Rosary is one of the oldest Churches in Goa built in 1549 and is dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. The huge convent of Santa Monica dating back to 1606, was the first Ninnery in Asia. Now it has been restored and is once again a residential Convert.
St Francis a brief history
St Francis annual feast is held on the 3rd December and every 10 years his remains are on display to the public. This event is of great importance to pilgrims and devotees. Please be aware the town becomes extremley busy and we recommend you begin your trip extremley early.
St Francis also known as Sante Pedro arrived in Goa on December 3rd 1552 he was the first missionary to bring Christianity to the East. It has been said that he had the gift of tongues and he performed miracles, such as raising the dead and healing the sick. But the miracle of his life was his personality, by which he was able to convert thousands to the faith wherever he went and to win their passionate devotion.
He died abandoned and without the sacraments or christian burial. But within a few weeks his body was recovered and found in perfect condition. He was brought to Goa and received there with a devotion and an enthusiasm, which showed that the people had already recognised him as a saint.
He was beatified by Pope Paul V in 1619 and canonized together with St Ignatius by Pope Gregory XV, on March 12th 1622. He is now the patron of all missions of the Catholic Church.
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