Rachol Seminary

Rachol Seminary, the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, is one of the oldest seminaries in Asia and stands on a hill near the Zuari River in Salcete taluka. It was established by the Jesuits in the early 17th century on the site of an earlier fort. The seminary has trained priests for Goa and beyond for centuries. Its large building is laid out around cloisters and contains a church dedicated to St Ignatius of Loyola. The church holds an ornate gilded altar and a historic pipe organ. The seminary also houses a library with rare books and manuscripts. It was the original home of the Museum of Christian Art before it moved to Old Goa. It is worth the trip for its historic architecture and peaceful hilltop setting.