Located on the banks of River Mandovi, Old Goa or Velha Goa (Velha pronounced as Vell-yea) means Old in Portuguese) was founded in the 15th century as a port town by the rulers of the Bijapur Sultanate.

The town was captured by the Portuguese in 1510 and was the administrative of seat of Portuguese India. This town was known as "Rome of the East" thanks to its magnificent churches. Epidemics of malaria and cholera broke out in the 17th century and the place was abandoned by 1759. The capital was shifted to Panjim or Panaji which was then known as "Nova Goa" (Nova in Portuguese means new) is now the current capital of the state. Visit Basilica of Bom Jesus, Sé Cathedral de Santa Catarina, Church of St Francis of Assisi, St. Augustine's Tower & The Archaeological Museum on the tour.