Rachol Seminary on the Zuari
Rachol stands on a rise above the Zuari, about 7 km from Margao. A fort here was taken by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and the Jesuits founded a seminary within its walls in the 1580s, which has trained priests for Goa ever since. Only a gateway of the fort survives, but the seminary buildings, church and cloisters remain intact and in use.
The church of St Ignatius Loyola has a gilded main altar and painted panels, and the seminary corridors and rooms have painted ceilings and old furniture. The seminary's library has held early printed books, and a small museum nearby displays Christian art from Goan churches. Your guide explains the seminary's role in education, printing and Konkani scholarship over four centuries.
Because Rachol is a working seminary, visits are by prior permission, and parts of the building may be closed to visitors. We arrange this in advance and keep to the times agreed.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Can tourists visit Rachol Seminary?
Visitors have been able to see the church and parts of the seminary with prior permission, as it is a working institution. Opening times are limited and some areas are private. We arrange access in advance; check current status before you travel.
How old is Rachol Seminary?
The seminary was founded by the Jesuits in the 1580s within the walls of an older fort captured by the Portuguese. It is among the oldest seminaries in Asia and still trains priests for the Archdiocese of Goa.
How far is Rachol from Chandor?
Rachol is about 7 km from Margao and roughly 15 km from Chandor, about 25 minutes by car. It fits naturally into a day with Loutolim and Chandor, or as a stop on the drive from Panjim to the south.
Also in Chandor, Loutolim and the Salcete mansions
More hours to plan around
