Mapusa is a town with a deep rooted tradition. In fact the word ‘Mapusa’ itself can be divided into two words: “Map”, which means ‘measure’ and “Sa” Which means ‘fill up’. This can be taken to mean a place where goods are measured and bought.

Mapusa is famous for the Friday Mapusa bazaar (Market), which is one of the few authentic bazaars to be found in the state. Housewives from all over Goa converge on this market town on Fridays to purchase the weeks supply of goods both perishables and otherwise.

This colourful and vibrant market usually begins at 8 in the morning and goes on till sun down. Walking through the market one is sure to find women from the neighbouring villages squatting under often tattered umbrellas calling out to passersby to check out their wares. Be prepared to be assailed by pungent aroma of spices and of course the dried fish and sausages on sale. You can find practically everything here from fruit and vegetables to toddy kitchen ware and clothes.

On other days when the market bears a more sane look one can also a wide range of products on sale. Mapusa also has a large range of shops dealing in a variety of cloth.

On a visit to Mapusa it is a must to visit the church of St. Jerome. The statue of our Lady of Milagres has the unique distinction of being venerated by both Hindus and Christians area. The Hindus believe that our Lady of Milagres or Miracles is the sister of the Hindu goddess Lairai. The result is a perfect example of the communal harmony that Goa has been blessed with.