| Sightseeing Highlights
Though Margao itself does not have too many attractions, it still offers plenty for a day long visit. You can visit the town square which has two gardens, the Municipal Garden and the Aga Khan Market. The covered market of Margao in the center of the town is one of the best in the state.
Another must-see for tourists is the richly decorated Church of the Holy Spirit. Also known as the Largo da Igreja, the church was first constructed by the Jesuits in 1564, but later destroyed. After extensive repairs that took nearly 30 years, this church is today considered as one of the best example of the Indian Baroque. Both the interior and exterior of the church is worth seeing. You can also visit the Sat Burnzam Ghor or the House of the Seven Gables nearby that represents the rich colonial Portuguese style.
The beaches of Colva and Benaulim are less than 10 km away and quite popular with tourists. Colva beach has many colonial style villas and quaint fishing huts and Benaulim is famous for its sunsets that attract a lot of visitors. The beaches are known for water sports facilities such as parasailing and jet skiing
Other Activities
You can take a trip to the village of Chandor about 15 km from here that is home to many old colonial mansions in Portuguese architectural style, as well as visit the Lutolim village, 10 km northeast of Margao for its old buildings and bungalows. Margao is also a major shopping center with all kinds of handicrafts and food items available.
The capital of Salcette province, Margao is the main population hub of South Goa
and is the second largest town in the state. It is also known as
Madgaon in the local language. Margao has an old and interesting
history. It was home to many of the Vaishnava sect maths or temples from where it got the name of ?matha-gram?,
which over time became Madgaon. The Portuguese later changed it to its
present name of Margao. It was also a major trading port with cargo
boats from Arabia and Africa coming
in quite frequently. Apart from being a bustling commercial and
industrial center, Margao has a vibrant tourism culture by virtue of
its proximity to opulent churches, scenic beaches and stately mansions. |
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