Soul TravellingIf you are looking to explore Indo-portuguese legacy in Goa, the Margao is the best place to experience it. Stories passed down from generations leaving historic and cultural impressions on the people of Margao. The Margao Cultural Walk by Soul Travelling gives travelers a rare opportunity to witness Margao from a different perspective, taking each participant back in time.
Margao: A Town Steeped in History
The walk starts with a quick understanding of Margao’s ancient history. Before Portuguese rule, Margao was known as Mathagrama, which was basically a Hindu settlement. Margao as it is known today stands with a blend of Portuguese and Hindu influences, which can be seen in the traditions and architecture of the modern day. The modern buildings along with the grand mansions and churches have a great story to tell on every corner.
Standing tall for over 450 years, the Holy Spirit church is one of Goa’s oldest churches. The Jesuit missionaries had initially constructed the Church in 1564, but it was demolished in 1571. The expansive building was finished in 1675 after it was reconstructed in 1645. Its architecture is a superb illustration. The sheer size and majestic look of the church captures the interest of every viewer. The highly expertised ambassador will guide you more on the history of the church
One of the most interesting facts of the Holy Spirit Church is the fact that it was built on the remains of the Sri Damodar Temple, which was demolished by the Europeans during their rule. Even though the deity was relocated to the village of Zambaulim, the local’s deep connections to their roots is seen even to this day.
Secrets of the Holy Spirit Church in Margao Goa
Apart from the grand design of the church, Holy Spirit Church witnesses an equinox which displays sunlight on the three main altars of the church, creating a very divine sight to behold. This phenomenon occurs every year at sunset on March 21st and September 23rd. The interiors of the church with its unique carvings is sure to take you back in time. The church also has scripts written in Portuguese which shows a strong Portuguese influence.
The Church square or Largo de Igreja ( In Portuguese) contributes largely to the charm of Margao. The 17th century crucifix on the church ground has observed some of Goa’s most historic events. This area was once the centre of Margao before modern development shifted the town’s focus.
The Margao Massacre: A Dark Chapter in Margao’s History
“There is no light, without the dark” this sentence perfectly explains one of the darkest moments of Margao, known as the Margao Massacre. It essentially was a time of political tensions in Margao wherein the tensions went too far taking the lives of civilians creating one of Goa’s bloodiest scenes.
Governor Vasco Guedes was incensed when a Goan candidate, Cristovao Pinto of the Partido Indiano, won the elections. In retaliation, he dissolved the Camara Municipal de Salcete and fresh elections were held on September 21, 1890. However, the voting process was marred by gross irregularities, leading to protests near the Holy Spirit Church. The army was called in, and a photographer’s attempt to document the scene caused panic among the authorities, who feared exposure through the photographs. Shots were fired, and civilians fled for their lives, with some seeking refuge in Dr. Salvador Alvares’ mansion, which still bears the bullet marks on its walls—a chilling reminder of that fateful day.
Margao’s Architectural Splendor
As you walk along Abade Faria Street also known as “Rua de Abade Faria” the street is filled with Indo-Portuguese houses which will surely capture your attention. The street Abade Faria is named in honor of a Goan priest who later became amongst the world’s most famous hypnotist, making the street even more special.
The Religious Harmony of Margao
Perhaps the most beautiful attribute of Margao is the harmonious blend of Hindu and Christians traditions. The centre of Hindu worship in Margao after the Europeans local temples was the Damodar Sal. The Goan Naik Shankhwalkar family consecrated a coconut from their gramadevata, Lord Damodar, which became the focal point for Hindu worship until the temples were built.
During Swami Vivekananda’s visit to Goa during 1898, he stayed at the Damodar Sal. His significance as a spiritual leader cemented Margao for the Hindu community. The Margao Cultural Walk by Soul Travelling will give you great insight into how Margao turned into a symbol of religious unity, where Catholic and Hindu communities coexisted for centuries peacefully.
A Taste of Goa in Margao
Enjoying the local cuisine is a must-do experience for any cultural tour, and the Margao Cultural tour concluded with a delicious taste of Goan specialties. As the ideal way to conclude our investigation of the town’s rich history, we made a stop at a neighborhood restaurant to indulge in traditional appetizers and sweets.
Final Thoughts
A wonderful look into the town’s rich past, complete with religious sites, Indo-Portuguese architecture, and both tragic and triumphant events, was provided by the Margao Cultural Walk. This stroll will help you, as a visitor, to appreciate Margao even more as it is a town that combines the old with the new. It’s an exploration of past events, cultural customs, and undiscovered tales.
The Margao Cultural Walk is a must-do experience with Soul Travelling if you want to see Goa for more than just its beaches. Feeling the beating heart of Goa, right here in the center of Margao, is more important than simply taking in the views.
