Chimbel Church Facade Crumbles As Monsoon Threatens 18th Century Heritage
An 18th-century church facade and convent site in Chimbel, Goa, is under threat due to prolonged neglect and the relentless monsoon, prompting urgent calls for conservation. Once home to Asia’s first indigenous Carmelite congregation and later a refuge for destitute women, the heritage complex now lies abandoned, with sections of its historic wall already collapsed. Vegetation growth and waterlogging are dislodging stonework, further destabilising this rare example of late modern Goan church architecture with indigenous roots.
Set across a 3.8-hectare slope, the site’s history spans religious, charitable, and medical functions. Originally established by native clergy, it later housed Goa’s earliest mental health facility and, until recently, operated as an old age home. A striking feature of the property is its church facade—ornamented with distinctive Solomonic columns and pilasters—showcasing a unique blend of European forms and Goan craftsmanship. Experts believe it represents an architectural evolution where local artisans adapted colonial designs into a culturally resonant style. However, unchecked growth of trees and poor drainage have put the structure at severe risk, especially during heavy rainfall. Local residents and civic bodies have raised repeated alarms. They argue that despite the site receiving heritage status under the state’s town planning conservation committee, little tangible conservation has occurred. Forest department assessments have flagged certain trees as hazardous, while the panchayat has issued removal notices to protect the structure.
Experts stress the need for trained archaeological conservators to undertake careful restoration that preserves both the architecture and surrounding biodiversity. Community groups have also submitted formal petitions demanding that restoration be prioritised without disrupting the site’s ecological and architectural balance. The site’s biodiversity adds another layer of value to the complex. Surveys indicate the presence of over 20 species of shrubs and rare local flora, including species native to the Western Ghats. Conservationists argue that heritage restoration should not be limited to buildings alone but must extend to preserving the green cover that supports local ecology. Integrating this site into Goa’s broader heritage tourism circuit could provide sustainable revenue for its upkeep while educating visitors about lesser-known facets of Goan history—particularly the role of native clergy from marginalised backgrounds.
Heritage advocates insist that preserving the Chimbel church site is not merely about aesthetics or tourism—it is about protecting a space where history, community, and biodiversity converge. As extreme weather events become more frequent, the need for proactive heritage management has become critical. By acting now, authorities can not only save a crumbling structure but also reaffirm their commitment to inclusive, sustainable, and historically conscious urban development in Goa.
