LOUTOLIM, GOA, INDIA – June 14, 2025 – India continues to be a land of remarkable collections, and now, the world’s largest collection of crosses can be found in the serene village of Loutolim, Goa, at the Big Foot Cross Museum. This extraordinary compilation is the passionate endeavor of Maendra J. Araujo Alvares, a Goan native whose dedication has resulted in a truly unique and globally recognized museum.
Maendra J. Araujo Alvares, born on March 1, 1958, has meticulously amassed a staggering collection of 1,530 crosses from around the world. Ranging in size from a mere 1 cm to an impressive 100 cm, these crosses are crafted from a diverse array of materials and metals, each telling a story of its origin, shape, and cultural significance.
The Big Foot Cross Museum, part of the larger “Big Foot” complex which also includes a fascinating “Ancestral Goa” village, offers visitors an immersive journey into the symbolism and artistry of crosses. Every cross in the collection is displayed with a detailed description, providing insights into its name, unique shape, geographical origin, and profound meaning. This meticulous categorization into 92 different groups allows for a deeper appreciation of the global variations and interpretations of this universal symbol.
Alvares’s passion for collecting began in March 2006, and since then, his commitment has transformed his personal pursuit into a public museum, making it the only cross museum of its kind in India. His foresight in preserving these historical and cultural artifacts offers a powerful educational experience for all who visit.
While the exact reasoning for starting this specific collection isn’t widely publicized, it’s clear that Alvares saw immense value in documenting the diverse representations of the cross across cultures and time periods. The Big Foot Cross Museum serves as a testament to the universal human impulse to create symbols and imbue them with meaning.
About Big Foot Cross Museum: Located in Loutolim, Goa, India, the Big Foot Cross Museum houses the world’s largest collection of crosses. Founded by Maendra J. Araujo Alvares, the museum features over 1,530 crosses from various parts of the world, meticulously displayed with detailed descriptions of their name, shape, origin, and meaning. It is a unique cultural and historical attraction in Goa. Its also been honored World Records India a renowned World Record Organization in India
