Museum of Christian Art visit
Museum of Christian Art in Old Goa houses a rich collection of liturgical objects, paintings, sculptures and vestments from the 16th to the 20th century. Housed in a restored colonial building near the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, the museum offers a compact but highly informative overview of Goa's Christian artistic heritage and the Portuguese-era church culture. Ideal for history and art lovers, it complements a walking tour of Old Goa's UNESCO‑recognised churches.
Location
Museum of Christian Art, Old Goa (near Basilica of Bom Jesus / Se Cathedral), Old Goa, India
Duration
45–90 minutes (self-guided) — 60–120 minutes if combined with a guided tour and neighbouring churches
Best Time to Visit
October to March (cool, dry season). Visit early morning (9:00–11:30) to avoid crowds and heat, or late afternoon for softer light and quieter galleries.
Pricing
Approximate entry fees (subject to change): Indian adults INR 10–30; foreign adults INR 30–100; children/concessions often lower. Note: Camera or video permits may incur an additional small fee. Carry ID for concession rates and expect prices to be updated by authorities.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Colonial-era altar pieces and carved wooden sculptures
Rare oil paintings and Christian devotional art from the 16th–19th centuries
Exquisite silverware and liturgical utensils used in Portuguese-era churches
Vestments and textiles showcasing embroidery and ecclesiastical craft
Informative displays explaining the fusion of local and European artistic styles
Itinerary
Arrival, ticketing and orientation
Buy tickets, inquire about guided tours or audio guides. Confirm camera/phone usage policy.
Ground-floor galleries
View major silver liturgical objects, reliquaries and early devotional paintings.
Upper galleries and textiles
Examine vestments, ecclesiastical textiles and carved wooden statues with explanatory panels.
Context and interpretation
Read exhibits on Goa's Christianisation, artistic exchanges between Europe and India, and restoration history.
Optional: walk to nearby churches
Combine with Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral (short walk). Great for photos and broader historical context.
Safety Requirements
Respectful clothing is advised inside religious and museum spaces (shoulders and knees covered).
No flash photography; follow museum staff instructions on photography and handling of exhibits.
Keep a safe distance from fragile exhibits and do not touch displays.
Supervise children at all times; some areas may have uneven floors or steps.
Watch your belongings — Old Goa is generally safe but standard precautions against pickpocketing apply.
Tips
Combine your visit with Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral — all are within easy walking distance.
Visit early morning to avoid heat and midday tour buses.
Hire a local guide or pick an audio guide (if available) to understand the provenance and symbolism of pieces — the museum is small but the context adds value.
Carry cash for small entry fees, camera permits and donations — card facilities may be limited.
Check opening days and times in advance (public holidays and restoration work can close galleries).
Wear comfortable shoes — the Old Goa precinct has cobbled paths and some walking between sites.
If you have mobility issues, ask staff about access — some historic buildings have steps and limited ramp access.
