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Museums

Archaeological Museum of Goa

4.3 · 946 reviews
Quiet and scholarly.
GW36+797 Archaeological Museum of Goa, behind Se Cathedral, Old Goa, Goa 403402, India
Interesting facts
1

The museum building was once a convent attached to the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, constructed in 1517.

2

It displays an impressive bronze statue of Luis Vaz de Camoes, a renowned Portuguese poet.

3

The collection includes rare Indo-Portuguese coins that date back to the colonial era.

4

Several artifacts on display were recovered from the ruins of the Adil Shah palace complex.

5

The museum houses a significant collection of wooden sculptures reflecting diverse religious influences in the region.

Overview

The Archaeological Museum of Goa is housed in the convent portion of the former Franciscan Convent of St. Francis of Assisi in Old Goa. It showcases a collection of artifacts spanning from the prehistoric period to the end of the Portuguese rule in Goa. The museum features eight galleries containing sculptures, hero stones, sati stones, and coins. One notable section is dedicated to Portuguese history, including portraits of former governors and viceroys of the Estado da Índia. It specifically highlights the artistic influence of the Kadamba dynasty alongside colonial-era relics. The site is situated behind the prominent Se Cathedral.

Photo spot

The exterior facade of the former convent building, which features distinct Portuguese colonial architecture.

Insider tips

Visit the neighboring Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral on the same trip as they are immediate neighbors.

Photography is strictly prohibited inside the galleries, so observe signage carefully.

The museum is relatively compact; combine your visit with the surrounding World Heritage sites of Old Goa.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to photograph exhibits inside the museum; security is strict regarding this rule.

Good to know

Closed on Fridays.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet tone within the galleries; dress modestly as the site is located within a complex of active religious structures.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the high midday heat and intense humidity of the Goan climate.
Address
GW36+797 Archaeological Museum of Goa, behind Se Cathedral, Old Goa, Goa 403402, India
15.503, 73.911
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsPortrait gallery of Portuguese viceroys, Kadamba-era hero stones, and Indo-Portuguese bronze statues.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the high midday heat and intense humidity of the Goan climate..

The exterior facade of the former convent building, which features distinct Portuguese colonial architecture.

Close by you'll find Basilica of Bom Jesus, Archaeological Survey of India, Se Cathedral.