Diu Museum
Image Courtsey: Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
Website: Not Available

Diu Museum

Archaeological / Historic (Housed in a converted church) Government
Place Diu
State Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
Virtual Museum No
Year of Establishment 1992
Museum Type Archaeological / Historic (Housed in a converted church)
National Importance Museum No
Address Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 362520
Visiting Time 08:00 AM – 06:00 PM (Daily)
Open all days of the week.
Entry Fee Free Entry

Museum Introduction

Established on October 12, 1992, the Diu Museum is housed within the historic St. Thomas Church, which was originally built in 1598. Located on an elevated platform near the Diu Fort, this Gothic-style edifice was the first Parish Church of Diu before being repurposed as an orphanage, police station, and eventually a museum to safeguard the island’s colonial and archaeological heritage.

General Collections

The collection is an archaeological treasure house comprising stone inscriptions of ancient rulers, antique statues, and artifacts tracing the Portuguese colonial era. It features religious icons, fossilized wood carvings, and objects recovered from various excavations and abandoned churches across the island.

Unique Historical Collections

400-Year-Old Statues: Rare wooden and marble statues of St. Thomas and St. Benedict, notable for their age and craftsmanship. Shadow Clocks: Ingenious ancient time-keeping devices used by early inhabitants. Fossilized Wood Carvings: Intricate artistic works crafted from prehistoric wood found in the region.

Additional Information

Archaeological Survey of India No
Notes The museum building retains its original Gothic architectural features, including pointed arches and whitewashed walls with faded Portuguese-era frescoes. In the evenings, the exterior is illuminated with multicolored lights.
Artifacts Statues of Christ and Virgin Mary; Stone inscriptions of local rulers; Wooden Saints and Armless Angels; Antique idols; Carved wooden altars; Ancient terracotta remains.
Highly Descriptive Yes
Contact Details +91 2875 252650 (Diu Tourism Office)