May 3, 2006—The state of Goa on India's southwestern coast is home to one of the world's most unique confluences of cultures.

From 1510 to 1961, the region was controlled by Portugal as a base for spice merchants and Christian missionaries. But Goa's Indian residents managed to hold on to their culture and religion, while selectively adopting some aspects of Western life.

Learn more about Goa's distinctive history, and tour the modern-day sights that capture its colorful past.