Goa is the dream vacation destination for all the youth of India, and why shouldn't it be? Goa is a place that has mesmerizing beaches, and landscapes, and is one of the top cities to have on your bucket list. Sightseeing in Old Goa is something that really calls for attention of all visitors. One such place well-known among tourists is the Church of Santa Monica. This guide will take you on a virtual tour of The Convent and the nearby places that you may find fascinating on your trip to old Goa.&nbsp;

Has your curiosity ever inclined you to explore the piquant spices, the details of how they grow, their origin, uses and much more? If yes, this time pay a visit to the Sahakari Spice Farm, Goa. In this 113 acres of land in Ponda, you get guided and informative tours hiking across the lanes of spices, herbs and fruits. You will feel blessed to have spent a gracious time at this place from the initial greetings to the farewell. The tour provides you with a bucket full of other entertainment options.&nbsp;

Location: C26G+23G, Belgaum Highway, Curti, Ponda, Goa&nbsp;
Timings: 9 am to 5:30 pm
Distance from Convent and Church of Santa Monica: 22 KM

The church of Santa Cruz started as just a small place of worship. The Holy Cross Church in the village of Santa Cruz features as the largest Parish in Goa. The Santa Cruz Church has been built in the Neo-Roman style of architecture with the Indian and European cultures getting blended. The Church of Santa Cruz was changed into a built-in-Calapur by the King of Portugal to baptize human beings into Christianity. It was built in the year 1541 and was later re built in the year 1710 by the Dominicans.&nbsp;

Location: FRGV+CWV, St Cruz, Goa&nbsp;
Timings: 09:00 am to 01:00 pm and 03:00 pm to 05:00 pm
Mass timings: Wednesday 06:00 pm and Sunday 05:30 pm every day
Distance from Convent and Church of Santa Monica: 12 KM

By Air: 
<ul>
<li>The nearest airport to Santa Monica is the Dabolim Airport, from there you can hire a taxi or take a bus to this church.</li>
</ul>

By Road:
<ul>
<li>Velha or Old Goa has a network of well-connected roads. You can easily take a bus ride, or hire a taxi to visit this church.</li>
</ul>

By Rail:
<ul>
<li>The Vasco Da Gama railway station is the nearest railway station at a distance of 36 km from this church. You can hire a taxi, or bus to reach here.</li>
</ul>

Goa is one of the places to witness dynamic beaches, and picturesque landscape that soothes your mind and captivates your soul, and is one vacation place that you must consider visiting. North Goa is famous for its beaches and hippie vibes and South Goa is the best place to know more about the culture of Goa. South Goa is a region filled with churches and histories of Goan Culture. Exploring South Goa means exploring Goa's history and the importance of Christianity.&nbsp;

Established in 1606, this architectural marvel took a whooping 21 years to build. This church of Santa Monica was considered to be Asia’s largest nunnery that can accommodate at least 300 persons at once. The Convent and Church of Santa Monica have an aura of mysterious beauty surrounding it. This beautiful church is perched atop a hill and gives a panoramic 360 view of an old-day fortress comprising enormous courtyards and giant buttresses. This beautiful church is of Portuguese style architecture and consists of 4 altars.&nbsp;

Location: Panaji, Goa
Duration: 2-3 Hours

The architecture of the Church and Convent reflects a combination of Tuscan, Corinthian, and composite styles. There were four altars; the main altar dedicated to St.Monica, the other to St.Augustine, the Bom Jesus, and the Miraculous cross. Some of the vaults over the areas are adorned with scenes from the Bible. The church of Santa Monica is considered to be one of the most beautiful Portuguese-style architecture. This convent was believed to be Asia’s largest nunnery that can accommodate 300 persons.

Ilha Grande, Bat Island, or Grande Island whatever you call it, is a great place to visit in Goa. It was formerly known as Ilha Grande and the name Bat Island is given for the fact that it encompasses several bats too. It is one of the most sought places in Goa for relishing in nature’s panorama with adventures doubling the craziest results of recreation. One can visit Grande Island through a short boat ride which is available from Panaji itself and enjoy a number of water sports. You get a lovely chance to spot the dolphins there.&nbsp;

Location: Near Old Petrol Pump, Khobra Waddo, Calangute, Goa&nbsp;
Distance from Convent and Church of Santa Monica: 37 KM

Mormugao Fort is one of the foremost coastal destinations in Goa. The Mormugao Fort is located near the Mormugao Port, which is a few kilometres away from Vasco. Giving a majestic view of the Varca beach and the Arabian Sea, this fort was built in the 17th century by the Portuguese to protect the Mormugao port. The fort is currently in ruins however, it is home to two beautiful fountains: Fonte De Malabar and the Fonte Santo Ignacio.&nbsp;

Location: Mormugao Fort, Alto Desterro, Mormugao, Goa
Distance from Convent and Church of Santa Monica: 39 KM

Another famous fort in Goa, the Nanuz Fort is located in the Sattari Taluka in the northern region of Goa. The Fortress was used for military purposes when there were revolts in the erstwhile period in Goa. It was built in the 17th century and is now in ruins but still attracts the history buffs and is believed to have been built by Shivaji. The Nanuz Fort is located around 48 km from the capital of Goa ‘Panaji’. One needs to climb a small hillock to reach the fort.&nbsp;

Location: Valpoi, Sattari, North Goa
Timings: 24 hours
Distance from Convent and Church of Santa Monica: 35 KM

Convent of Santa Monica and The Chapel of The Weeping Cross Goa

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