- Indulge in Azulejos Art
The genesis of Azulejos can be found in the Islamic mosaic and tile arts, which further trace back to the Assyrian and Babylonian era. For centuries, humankind has adopted, developed and evolved the techniques of glazing and decorating ceramic tiles.
Initially brought to the Iberian Peninsula by the invading Moors, Azulejo became a focal symbol of Portuguese art, culture, and craftsmanship only around 16th and 17th centuries. Today, these hand-painted tiles are found adorning the walls of churches, museums, palaces, and neighborhood streets throughout Portugal.
And in Goa too! Even if you may not visit Lisbon or Porto anytime soon, you can still indulge in it.
Visit Velha Goa Galeria and Azulejos de Goa to take back home some fun and unique pieces of Azulejos artwork.
2. Buy Quirky Ceramics and Fine Porcelains
If you love to collect curios and intriguing objects just like me, then head to Fontainhas. Take a walk through the alleyways of the Latin Quarter. Around every corner, you will find an antique store or a designer boutique, a studio, a cafe or a hole-in-the-wall restaurant.
At Thomas the Potter, pot-bellied figurines, sea creatures and unconventional ceramic pieces dominate the space.
nāda, yet another exquisite store that specializes in objects made of fine porcelain. It lies next to Thomas the Potter. You certainly cannot resist buying a thing or two from here. My favorite were the sconces and little whirling dervishes.
3. Admire Goa’s Architectural Grandeur
Dedicate a day or two to exploring Goa’s Neo-Roman monuments and architectural remnants of the past built by the Portuguese settlers. Start your journey in Velha Goa, visiting Basilica of Bom Jesus, Sé Cathedral, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosario (Our Lady of the Rosary), and the Church of St. Cajetan. End your day with a visit to the striking Neo-Gothic Mae de Deus Church in Saligao.
From Nossa Senhora da Graca (Our Lady of Grace) to Nossa Senhora da Divina Providência (Our Lady of Divine Providence), Goa has an abundance of historical and architectural legacy to see. As an admirer of art and architecture, Goa is a haven for such diversity to me.
4. Pick souvenirs from Mario Gallery
In my decade-long travel to Goa, no visit has been complete without making a trip to Mario Gallery. I love to visit their stores, especially the one at Penha-da-Franca. The eclectic shop celebrates the work of Goa’s revered late artist Mario de Miranda. The gallery sells a variety of delightful items inspired by the artist’s work, including art prints, coffee mugs, fridge magnets, t-shirts, wall décor, and lamps. It’s a must-see for anyone who hasn’t visited yet!
5. Bookshops for Bibliophiles
Whether you are a looking for a book to buy or simply swing by a bookshop, Goa has got some eclectic finds for you. I, for one, love to visit indie bookstores wherever I go. It certainly tells a lot about the community per se. By way of bookshops, you get an understanding of the learning and literary culture of the society.
My first visit is always to the Literati Bookshop & Café in Calangute. Another stop would be the Broadway Book Centre in Panjim. Champaca in Anjuna is another pitstop, a relatively new independent bookstore. And there are The Dogears Bookshop in Margao, Singbal’s Book House in Panjim, That Book Store in Penha-da-Franca.
6. Delve into Art, Culture, Museums and Libraries
Sunaparanta Goa Centre for the Arts in Panjim is a great way to introduce you to independent art shows in the town. Besides, the lush locale and peaceful vibe of the place, there is a quaint little café called Café Bodega inside the centre. You can sit and relax over a cup of coffee or fresh summer drinks and artisanal bakery goods, especially in the afternoon sweltering heat. Adding to this exploration trail, Houses of Goa Museum built in the shape of a ship, will take you on a historical ride through its three-story building. It gives a glimpse into Goa’s traditional houses, architectural styles, postcard collections and five-hundred-year-old pictures of Goa, and rare objects like lamps, windows, French doors, and 16th century tiles that once featured in Goan houses. Another museum to give an exploration of Goa’s heritage, right from prehistoric period to colonial era, would be the Goa State Museum.
Krishnadas Shama State Central Library was a recent find for me. This brought me to thinking that it is so imperative to have well-stocked libraries in every city, town and village. Such institutions should no longer be seen as an option, but a necessary and integral part of any community. Like public parks that bear long-term positive effects on the overall wellbeing of a society, accessibility and availability of public libraries are crucial and prerequisite for the general welfare. I was happy to see that Goa has this privilege for its people.
7. Hike to the Historic Forts
When you are in Goa, consider a short hike to Reis Magos, Chapora, Aguada, Tiracol, and Cabo de Rama forts just before sunset. The panoramic vista of the sea and the endless horizon against the setting sun make for a breathtaking view.
Want to read a longform version of my Goa’s experience? Read my travelogue here.
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