Are You Missing These Hidden Gems in Old Goa?

The ongoing exposition of St. Francis Xavier, held once every ten years, draws pilgrims from across the globe to Goa. While the basilicas and cathedrals are central to this religious journey, those seeking a deeper understanding of the history of Christianity, the Jesuits, and the work of St. Francis Xavier in Goa have much more to explore. Goa offers a rich tapestry of museums, research centers, and art galleries that shed light on this vibrant legacy. Here are some notable places that provide a fascinating perspective on the Indo-Portuguese heritage, Jesuit history, and Christian art. 

Xavier Centre of Historical Research (XCHR), Alto Porvorim 

The Xavier Centre of Historical Research (XCHR) in Alto Porvorim is an important institution for those looking to explore Jesuit history and the broader Indo-Portuguese heritage in South Asia. Established in 1977 by the Jesuits of the Goa-Poona Province, the center has grown to become a hub for historical research. Named after St. Francis Xavier, XCHR highlights not only the missionary's role but also the impact of the Jesuits across Goa and South Asia. 

XCHR's extensive research library houses over 30,000 volumes, offering access to manuscripts, rare books, and periodicals that cover: 

-The Jesuits in Goa and India 

-The Church's history in Goa 

-Indo-Portuguese Christian art and culture 

-Goa's colonial past and its connections with Asia 

One of the standout pieces in the library is the original copy of Gazeta de Goa, Goa's first newspaper, published in 1821. Scholars and visitors can also explore microfilm archives and private manuscripts that document the region's rich trading and cultural heritage. 

The museum at XCHR is another highlight, initiated in 1983. It features rare pieces of Indo-Portuguese Christian art, numismatics, and an impressive collection of works by Angelo Fonseca, a pioneer of Indian Christian art. The museum's aim is to promote the appreciation and preservation of Goa's diverse cultural heritage.  

Location: Bakibab Borkar Road, Alto Porvorim, Goa 

Timings: Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM–1 PM, 2 PM–5 PM; Saturday: 9:30 AM–1 PM 

Museum of Christian Art (MoCA), Old Goa 

Perched on the serene Holy Hill within the 17th-century Convent of Santa Monica at Old Goa, the Museum of Christian Art (MoCA) is a must-visit for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. Established in 1994, MoCA is celebrated as the first museum in Asia dedicated to Christian art. 

The museum presents a unique blend of Indian and European artistic traditions, showcasing artifacts that date back to the Portuguese era in Goa. Visitors to the museum can admire: 

-Intricately crafted statues, altarpieces, and religious artifacts 

-Rare silverware and liturgical items 

-Paintings and sculptures that reflect Indo-Portuguese influences 

These art objects offer insights into the confluence of cultures during the colonial period, where local artisans incorporated Indian motifs into Christian art forms. Recently upgraded to modern standards, the museum enhances the visitor experience with curated exhibits and conservation efforts to preserve its collection for posterity. 

Location: Convent of Santa Monica, Holy Hill, Old Goa 

 Timings: Open daily, 10 AM–5 PM 

Goa State Museum, Panaji 

The Goa State Museum in Panaji is another treasure trove for those interested in Christian history and the legacy of the Jesuits in Goa. Established in 1977 and now housed in the historic Adil Shah's Palace, the museum showcases a vast array of artifacts that cover various facets of Goa's history, art, and culture. 

Among the museum's fourteen galleries, the Christian Art Gallery stands out. This section displays: 

-Sculptues, paintings, and liturgical objects from Goa's Christian heritage 

-Wooden carvings and furniture that reflect the Indo-Portuguese style 

-Artifacts that highlight the role of the Church in shaping Goan culture 

In addition to Christian art, the museum's exhibits on Goa's colonial history provide valuable context for understanding the spread of Christianity in the region. The interplay of local traditions with European influences is evident in the art, numismatics, and manuscripts on display. 

Location: Adil Shah's Palace, Panaji, Goa 

Timings: Monday to Friday, 10 AM–5 PM 

Why Visit These Places? 

For pilgrims attending the exposition of St. Francis Xavier, these museums and research centers provide a deeper, more nuanced understanding of his life, work, and the broader Christian heritage in Goa. The Xavier Centre of Historical Research connects visitors with the intellectual and cultural impact of the Jesuits, while the Museum of Christian Art highlights the artistic legacy that emerged from the Indo-Portuguese encounter. The Goa State Museum, on the other hand, offers a thematic overview of Christian art and Goa's colonial history, making it an essential stop for those curious about the roots of Christianity in the region. 

By visiting these places, pilgrims not only pay homage to St. Francis Xavier but also gain an appreciation for Goa's diverse and harmonious cultural heritage—a testament to centuries of faith, art, and history.

By Steve Antao