PANAJI, GOA — The Government of Goa has officially declared 15 ancient monuments and archaeological locations as state-protected sites under the Goa Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1978. The landmark decision, issued by the Department of Archaeology in the latest Official Gazette, secures crucial legal preservation status for a diverse array of caves, temples, forts, and colonial ruins across the state.
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15 Heritage Sites Granted Official Protection
Following a public consultation process initiated earlier this year, the Department of Archaeology finalized protected status for 15 cultural and historical landmarks spanning multiple talukas:
- Tiswadi: Protection has been extended to the Malar Cave (Malar), the historical Pelourinho Novo road landmark in Old Goa, the Cave at Sirdona, the ruins of the Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Chimbel), and the ancient remains of the Gopakkapattnam Port (Goa Velha).
- Quepem & Sanguem: Declared sites include the Jacquem Cave (Neturlim), Bawlyache Mol (Pirla), Balli Math (Balli), and the ruins of the Sasore Khaddem Temple (Cordem).
- Ponda & Bicholim: Protective coverage includes the Tamsuli Cave (Candola), the historic Mardangad Fort (Queula), the ruins of the Surya Temple, and the Thadgi/Memorials in Kudne.
- Salcete & Mormugao: The Rock-cut Tank in Dabolim and the Shree Damodar Temple Tank at Fatorda (Margao) have been designated as protected sites.
The notification, signed by Director and ex-officio Joint Secretary of Archaeology Dr. Nilesh B. Fal Dessai, grants the state government legal backing to prevent unauthorized developments and ensure active preservation at these locations.
