Institute Menezes Braganza in Goa

Established in 1871, the erstwhile Institute Vasco da Gama now rechristened as the Institute Menezes Braganza is repository of precious paintings and antiques dating back to the Portuguese rule.Renamed after the renowned freedom fighter Menezes Braganza, the institute ahs become the crucible for intellectuals from all aspects of Goa's society.The Menezes Braganza museum boasts of a priceless paintings, drawings and sculptures.

Its enviable repertoire consists 250 original works within the form of oil paintings, prints, and statues of European and Portuguese masters of the 19th century, involving husband of modern art Cezanne, Henry Russo, Reonar, Groze, Pissaro and Mattis Broque, a contemporary of Picasso.The Institute Menzes Braganza also houses over 50 collections of Indian masters like Laxman Pai, Prafull Dahanukar, M F Hussain, Souza, Raza, etc. The centre piece of attraction among the historical artefacts is the "Inquisition table," onto which the council of the Inquisition's proceedings were conducted.

The Institute Menezes Braganza, is easily accessible from all parts of the state given its location in the state capital Panaji. Intellectuals from all walks of Goa's intelligentsia converge at this august location and take part in stimulating intellectual discussions. This is one platform from where one can get a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the country. Students of fine art who plan to visit Goa should make a stop over to this place as it will give them rare insights into the works of legendary artists.

The Central Library of the Institute, founded in 1832, is the oldest social library within India. Book amongst you will make a beeline to this place as they get a chance to browse through some rare journals , books that otherwise would not be available at any other book store. One can do a lot of research as lots of material related to diverse fields of study is available at the Central Library.