Margao, the cultural capital of Goa

Spice it up. That remains Margao's mantra. The town, located on the banks of River Sal in Salcete Taluka serves as the administrative headquarters of South Goa district, celebrates arts, films, festivals, food, music, sports and theater like no other in Goa, thus earning itself the tag of the cultural capital of the state. Just as the colonizers left a mark on local culture, Goa, too, made a dent on their lifestyle. In Portugal today, people buy Margao, a brand of spices and aromatic herbs. For soccer fans, a visit to FC Goa's home stadium in the town is a must.
Like the other parts of Goa, the history of Margao is laced with pogroms and destruction of ancient heritage by the Portuguese raiders. And yet, like elsewhere in Goa, the social harmony amongst its communities sets an incredible benchmark. Mario Miranda, the famous cartoonist and one of the biggest icons that Goa has gifted to the world, lived and died near Margao. Take a moment to soak in Margao's aroma even if you are headed to the nearby popular beaches of Benaulim, Betalbatim, Colva, Cansaulim, Majorda or Utorda.