Archaeological Museum of Goa — Attraction in Goa

The concept of museums in India may be traced back to the historic times, in which references to the chitrasala (picture gallery) do occur. However, in India, the museum movement post-dates the similar developments that occurred in Europe.

The earliest necessity to house objects of antiquarian remains dates back to late 1796 CE when the Asiatic Society of Bengal felt the need to house the enormous collection of archaeological, ethnological, geological, zoological pursuits. However, the first museum by them was started in 1814. The nucleus of this Asiatic Society Museum later provided the Indian Museum, Calcutta.

In Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) also, due to the various explorative investigations that was initiated since the times of its first Director-General, Alexander Cunningham, vast quantity of antiquarian remains were collected. The idea of archaeological site museums was further initiated by the then Director-General Sir John Marshall who conceptualized the establishment of archaeological site museums under the Archaeological Survey of India in 1905 to display excavated antiquities in the close vicinity of their provenance to empower visitors with comprehensive vision of the site, its context and treasures so that the site as well as the artefacts can be evaluated holistically.

The concept of site museums is well elucidated by Hargreaves, one of the former Director Generals of ASI - ‘it has been the policy of the Government of India to keep the small and movable antiquities, recovered from the ancient sites, in close association with the remains to which they belong, so that they may be studied amid their natural surroundings and not lose focus by being transported’. A separate Museums Branch in ASI was created in 1946 by Sir Mortimer Wheeler. After the independence, there was a spurt in the growth of site museums in ASI.

After present, there are forty-six (46) Archaeological museums spreading over the length and breadth of India i.e. Kangra (Himachal Pradesh) in the north to Mattancherry Palace (Kerala) in the south and Sri Surya Pahar (Goalpara, Assam) in the east to Dholavira (Kachchh, Gujarat) in the west.

Museums around the world are transforming and striving to innovate and remain socially relevant. Archaeological museums face a new challenge; while they must provide excellent facilities for safekeeping of the vast remains of excavated objects and fragments from the adjacent sites, they should also present collections to people in the context of the site and are interesting and engaging for visitors.

Keeping the present scenario in mind, most of the Archaeological museums have now been up-graded in terms of general layout, gallery plans, information/ interpretative panels, lighting, disable-friendly environment, etc. In order to nurture best practices in archaeological museums, guidelines have also been formulated in 2013. These guidelines were prepared to monitor museum development and management in all its major spheres of activity and to fund research, conservation, interpretation, and visitor services and setting-up of efficient...

The Archaeological Museum of Goa, located in Old Goa, is a treasure trove of history and culture.Being a visitor at level zero, I found visiting this museum to be an experience that opened up new worlds.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of artifacts from the ancient period of Goan history. From pottery shards to intricate jewelry, these artifacts provide a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived in the region centuries ago. It was fascinating to see how technology and artistry evolved over time, and how these artifacts reflected the changing cultural landscape of Goa.

The museum also houses a collection of sculptures and carvings from various periods in Goan history. These artworks showcase the talent and creativity of the artists who created them, and offer a window into the religious and social beliefs of the people of that time. One particularly striking sculpture was a depiction of Lord Shiva in his dancing form, known as Nataraja, which symbolizes the cosmic cycles of creation and destruction.

In addition to the artifacts and artworks, the museum also features informative displays and exhibits that provide context and background information on the history of Goa. From the arrival of the Portuguese colonizers to the struggles for independence, the museum covers a wide range of topics that help visitors understand the rich and complex history of the region.

Overall, my visit to the Archaeological Museum of Goa was a fascinating and educational experience. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to learn more about the history and culture of this beautiful region. I left the museum with a newfound appreciation for the people who came before us, and a deeper understanding of the traditions and values that have shaped...

A Glimpse into Goa's Rich Past at the Archeological Museum

The Archeological Museum of Old Goa offers a fascinating journey through the layers of history that have shaped this unique region. Housed in the former convent of St. Francis of Assisi, the museum's setting itself is steeped in heritage.

Diverse Collection: The museum's eight galleries showcase artifacts from prehistoric times to the Portuguese colonial era. From stone sculptures and inscriptions to portraits of viceroys and religious relics, the collection is surprisingly comprehensive. Historical Context: Each gallery is well-organized and provides informative descriptions, helping visitors understand the significance of the artifacts and their place in Goa's story.

Tips: The museum is located in Old Goa, so you can easily combine it with visits to the nearby churches and monuments. Allow enough time: Give yourself at least an hour to explore the museum's collection. There’s strict no Photography/Videography policy. There’s enough parking available outside the museum premises. Washroom facilities are inside the museum. Tickets: QR code to the booking page is available outside the front desk, where by you can quickly book entry ticket...