For its size as one of the smallest states of the Indian Union,
Goa, as a place, has quite a diversity in its cultural landscape.
This is the result of centuries of a chequered historical
evolution. This forms another feather in the cap of the vast
cultural diversity and richness of the Indian subcontinent
across its length and breadth.
One of the most visible facets is the religious architecture
of the place considering the temples, churches and mosques
which dominate the landscape of the place. Religious
structures across the spectrum of the communities are
a place of congregation for the community as a whole.
Thus, these impart a sense of socio-cultural identity for the
respective communities. These were therefore accorded the
most prime places in the landscape and the best of resources
were used, pooled by the community together. It is well
documented that in historically pre-industrialized societies,
socio-cultural and economic activities of the populace
revolved around these institutional centres.