This ancient historical former capital of Goa is now a UNESCO world heritage site and famed for its opulent buildings and churches reminiscent of the glory days of "Golden Goa". It was abandoned by the Portuguese officially in 1843 when the capital was moved to Panjim or Panaji.
Today, most of the remaining buildings are maintained by the archeological survey of India and the Archdiocese of Goa. It is a holy site for all Goans particularly Goan Christians because it is the site where the Sacred relics of St Francis Xavier or "Goencho Saib" are preserved for posterity.