Old Goa still reflects its era of European occupation and influence. The Portuguese, as one of the best-known western powers in the 16th Century, invaded countries in the east. They advanced with full force to stay on the western coast of India, but the hand of fate reversed their destiny and overshadowed their presence after four and a half centuries. Their cultural influence and amalgamation with the Indian civilisation remain. There are no longer any Portuguese among the population, but their architecture has left a lasting mark on this region. I was amazed to see many churches, chapels, monasteries and convents in Old Goa. Religion is the theme that keeps the bond of culture and tradition alive through these monuments.

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GOA is not, as you might expect, a country but a state on the South Western coast of India. Goa’s uniqueness has been moulded by its past history, namely its colonisation by Portuguese from 1510 until 1961. That amalgamation, of Portuguese culture with Indian traditions, has created a rather special place to visit. The Portuguese ethos in Goa is evident in church architecture, the colour of houses, the blended cuisines and the beauty of cultural events celebrating Christmas and Easter

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