First Published on August 5, 2016
Goa has always enthralled us with its gorgeous beaches – so much that not many of us realize or even explore what is beyond these beaches. We forget that it has a fabulous history. Thanks to my numerous visits to this state, I have had numerous opportunities to delve into the by-gone heritage and history of Goa. I do not just mean Old Goa but a beautiful living and breathing heritage. I highly recommend that you trace these roots and walk through this living history of Goa with a heritage walk through Fontainhas Goa in Panjim. This is where you can experience its actual culture – a blend of Indian and Portuguese – the one that makes Goa the colorful place it is.
Fontainhas Goa or the Latin Quarters is right in the center of its capital city- Panjim. The first time I did this Goa heritage walk in Fontainhas, I was stunned by its colors and story. The 2nd time on the Panjim heritage walk had me dig deeper into its manner of construction and the third time in Fontainhas Goa, I found more of its hidden treasures. If I get a chance, I will walk through the lanes of Fontainhas Goa again and with the same zeal as the first time. I fear there is plenty of treasures still hidden in plain sight!
I am pretty sure that by the end of my post, you would have added this to your list of Panjim attractions for your next Goa trip. So without much ado, let’s plunge in with a brief history of Goa.
History of Goa
Goa has a long history that goes back to the mythological tales of Lord Vishnu’s Dashavatar. It is said that it was born out of Parshurama‘s arrow. Over the years, Goa has seen several rulers – the Mauryans, the Chalukyas and then the Muslim rule of Adil Shah. It was during this Muslim rule that the Portuguese first discovered Goa through its famed explorer – Vasco Da Gama. Having seen it once, it was quickly captured by them and Goa became their key Portuguese colony for all trade in Asia. For over 450 years, Portuguese ruled over Goa and after a long struggle, it was surrendered to Independent India on December 19, 1961.
It is the remnants of these 450 years of Portuguese rule that you find in the Fontainhas part of Panjim. These are the parts of Goa where the history and culture of Portuguese Goa still live on.
Fontainhas – Heritage Colony of Goa
Fontainhas, as you may have guessed, has some connection to Fountain. In Portuguese, it actually means that. The name basically comes from the natural spring in this area called the “Fonte Phoenix” or “Fountain of Phoenix“. The spring was found at the bottom of the Altinho Hill, near the Mala area of Goa. The Mala settlement was a prominent Hindu settlement and is marked by the Maruti temple dedicated to the monkey God – Hanuman.
History has it that the Fontainhas area was reclaimed by a wealthy Portuguese called “Mossmikar” in the 1770s. The gentleman’s real name was Antonio Joao de Sequeira. Since he had returned with good fortune from Mozambique (East Africa), he soon earned his new nickname. The area he owned became his coconut plantations. The estate and its surroundings were occupied by the plantation workers, sailors and fishermen. The aristocratic Portuguese officers resided in Old Goa at that time.
In the later years, when Old Goa faced several epidemics, the Portuguese shifted their capital to Panjim. By then, following the last wishes of Mossmikar, the ownership of these plantation grounds had moved to Convent of Our Lady of Carmo at Chimbel. The Portuguese took over the land and set it up as the residential area for various administrative Portuguese officers. The area thrived from the 1840s and continues to do so today. In fact, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What is interesting is that you can still see parts of this history here. From the vibrant heritage homes of Goa to the Fountain of Phoenix, it is all still around. I started my Fontainhas heritage tour at the Ourem Creek end and walked up to the Altinho hill. This pretty much covers the spread of this living heritage of Goa.
Here are the highlights of what you will discover through this heritage walk of the Old Latin Quarters of Panjim.
Colorful Houses of Fontainhas Goa
There is no way that you will not fall in love with the cute, vibrant houses of Fontainhas. I kept remembering this game that I used to play as a kid – “Color, color, which color do you want” and once the person specified the color, we were to run and catch it before he caught us. To me, the Fontainhas area was the ideal area to play this. There was no way anyone would be ever caught. Name a color, and you will find it here.
These Goan heritage houses in Fontainhas are made of egg-shells and chunna or limestone. Most of these homes are still occupied. People either live in them or have converted them into guest homes or shops. It is said that some of these families can still trace their heritage and roots to the Portuguese who had settled here.
You are most likely to come across some popular heritage houses in Fontainhas during your Goa heritage walk. These would include –
Panjim Inn
This is a good option for your stay in Panjim, especially if you want to stay in Fontainhas. The heritage building is a landmark corner of the Latin Quarters of Goa. It is now a part of the Welcomgroup of hotels. It was originally built in 1880 by Francis Assis de Silviera. The great-grandchildren of the original owner continue to run and manage the property till date. They even run an art gallery right across the hotel – which incidentally is the other famous heritage landmark of Fontainhas.
Gitanjali Gallery
Right across the Panjim Inn, the red-colored building hosts an art gallery called Gallery Gitanjali. The gallery is a hot spot for award-winning artists. It is worthwhile to step in and have a look at the pretty displays of Fontainhas history and abstract art.
Velha Goa Galeria
The gallery might be new but the building is quite old. However, what makes it even better is that this is a good place to buy those Goan-Portuguese tiles that you will see during your heritage walk. For now, we will leave the tiles here and proceed with the rest of our tour of Fontainhas.
The one thing that is bound to strike you is that all the homes seem to be painted fresh. The reason for that is a rule that was laid down by the Portuguese – every home must be painted fresh every year. This tradition did not die and still lives in Goa. Here is a unique area where I found three different colored homes next to each other. I have nicknamed it the Tri-Colored Chowk or the Tri-Colored junction. What do you think of this name? 😉
Balcoas and Tulsi Aangans in Fontainhas Goa
Fontainhas in Goa is not just about Christian homes. You are likely to find a fair number of Hindu homes too. Our guide on the walking tour of Fontainhas told us is that you could easily identify a Christian home from a Hindu one. The former has a cross on it while the latter had a Tulsi plant growing in its compounds.
Another interesting feature is the presence of Balcoas or red stone balconies in a Christian home. Should you go for a walk in the evening, you will find plenty of residents sitting around in this area and exchanging notes. In fact, the scene continues from its Portuguese days when this area was a hot spot for gossip. Also, notice the mosaic bench. As I understand, many of the old homes have mosaic flooring within and this is a Chinese influence that came by in the Portuguese days.
In a Hindu home, these were replaced by Raj Aangans where the Tulsi was kept or courtyards with fewer windows (called Chowki), All these features are still there for you to see.
Plinths, Corbels and Railings in Fontainhas, Panjim
All the houses of Fontainhas have a typical sloping roof, making the entire structure akin to the stick houses that we drew as kids. These were built to ease the flow of the monsoon rains that Goa faces for at least 3 months of the year. What made some of these roofs stick out was the presence of corbels and plinths with eaves.
This aspect of the roofs became clearer to me upon my 2nd visit, especially after I had been to the Houses of Goa Museum. The museum specifically pointed out these characteristics of typical Portuguese home and even had photographs of some interesting ones around Goa. Spotting them for real during the walking tour of Goa was like finding a treasure on a trail.
The same museum explained the presence of railings and columns in a Portuguese home. These were common around the Balcoas and upper Balconies. The railings of a Fontainhas home has a very artistic appeal with its floral designs. The original ones were largely made of wood but a lot of them have now been replaced with metal.
The columns are responsible for that typical aristocratic European feel to these homes. I found one of these columned gems in my Tri-colored Chowk of Fontainhas. 😉
Pretty doors and stunning Shell windows in Fontainhas Goa
The doors of the Goan heritage homes may not be as exquisite as the Havelis of Rajasthan or the mansions of Chettinad. They, however, are pretty in a simple, contemporary manner.
More than the doors, I fell in love with the classic Shell windows of the Fontainhas homes. These windows are made from flat oyster shells found along the riverbank of Goa. The shells are shaped and were all pasted together in narrow strips to form a translucent pane. The key reason for this decor is a little more practical than just aesthetics. The shells cool the interiors of the home and provide some respite from the warm Goan air. At the same time, they allow enough sunlight within the rooms, making them a better alternative than glass. These oyster shell windows of Goa can not just be seen in the homes of Fontainhas. They are even present in the churches of old Goa.
Azulejos of the heritage homes in Goa Fontainhas
It is hard not to miss the blue-tiled nameplates by the pretty doors of Goan homes. These are some heritage relics left by the Portuguese in Goa. The blue and white tiles are called Azulejos and you first heard me mention those when introducing you to Velha Galeria. These tiles are hand-painted and back in those days, came straight from Portugal. Over time, the locals learned the art and one can now buy them in Goa.
Roosters on Roofs and Cops on the Walls
Another vestige from the Portuguese era are figurines on the roofs and walls of the homes. The two that you can spot in Fontainhas include a rooster and a Portuguese man. I like to refer to the man as the cop for it does resemble one.;-)
Winding Streets of the Old Latin Quarters of Goa
In some parts of the Fontainhas area, I felt like a hamster trying to find its way through the winding passages of a maze. Really! Take a look.
Here and there you can find some old rusted bikes and cars. The most unusual thing was that quite a few streets here have been named after dates – like the 18th June Street, which was named so owing to the revolution that started in Goa on that day. Of course, today this is a major shopping area. Also, the 31st January Road or the Rua – named after the day Portugal got independence from Spain.
The Wishing Well in Fontainhas
Somewhere along the twists and turns of the winding streets of Fontainhas, we reached this wide corner with a bright red well. It really stood out against the bright green backdrop and evidently told us that it was built by a Portuguese – remember the Portuguese roosters. 🙂
Everyone talks about this being a wishing well. However, somehow, I have never been able to figure why it is termed so.
Chapel of St. Sebastian
A prominent church that was built in the 1800s, this one is right next to the Wishing well. As I understand, the church is still functional and the guide told us that it has several prominent artifacts inside that make it unique. One unusual thing was a cross that was kept in Old Goa with the statue of Jesus. As I understood, what makes it even more unusual that the eyes of Jesus are open, unlike most other statues. The cross was earlier kept in old Goa – specifically the Palace of Inquisition. It is believed that the eyes of Jesus are open to let people know that they are being watched for their answers while being questioned by the inquisitors.
The 3 altarpieces in the church as I understand, are treasures from a church in Diu. In addition to these carved beauties, don’t miss the wooden chests that are said to have come from the same church.
Old Bakeries and Cafes in Fontainhas Goa
As I had mentioned earlier, a lot of the homes are fully or partly converted to shops and lodging houses. Some of these shops are Bakeries and Cafes. Our guide took us to one of the oldest ones here – called the 31st January Bakery. A small shop with some really yummy Goan goodies – the three-layered cake called Bebinca and wedding sweets like the Bol. The place is over 70 years old and besides the goodies, you can see some of their black and white photographs.
Another interesting cafe was this one with some cute Street Art.
The Fountain of Phoenix in Fontainhas
Where exactly this fountain is, we did not know but the same was channelized through an underground tunnel into small tanks. We visited one of these. I could see the water gushing in from the outlet. Our guide informed us that there was a small chamber at the far end but nothing really there. The steps to the doors at the far end confirmed the same but there did not seem any way of reaching those unless you waded across. For what purpose these were used, is not clear.
The underground passage continues along the periphery of the Altinho hill and here and there, you can see the moss-covered done. This one specifically made a nice picture, signing the end of the Fontainhas area and the beginning of the Mala area with the famed Hanuman temple atop. Walking around the area, you can spot pretty colored stairs going all the way to the top of Altinho hill. I am yet to climb these to get to Altinho and maybe, the next time I will start from here.
Altinho Hill
A short drive away from the Fontainhas area, this was home to the affluent. Right now, it is home to the Chief minister of Goa and the Arch Bishop. We stopped by the house of the Archbishop to have a quick look at it from the outside.
A drive around and you know why this area is so sought after. The spectacular views of Goa from here are of course, the topmost reason for it 🙂
Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception church in Panjim
Technically the heritage tour of Fontainhas ended with the Altinho hill. However, here is a bonus attraction. The Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception church in Panjim . What is special about it, well, you can see it for yourself. 🙂
The church was first built in the 1540s for the Portuguese sailors. It was later rebuilt in the 1600s to accommodate the needs of growing residents. It was in the late 1700s that the zigzag staircases were added to the church. While that might be a striking feature of this church, what makes this Panjim attraction unique is the presence of an ancient bell. This bell is Goa’s second-largest church bell. It was installed in the year 1871 and has been the pride of this place since then.
This heritage walk through Fontainhas in Goa is bound to add a different flavor to this vibrant state. I am sure that by now, you are curious to see all this living heritage for yourself. So, go on, put it on your Goa Trip itinerary by pinning this.
How to get to Fontainhas in Goa?
- Goa has an airport of its own and has a fairly decent frequency of flights linking to most major cities in India.
- One can also, reach Goa by road or rail.
- Panjim is the center and capital of Goa. You can reach Panjim with any of the local transport available in the state.
- Fontainhas is quite a well-known area of Panjim. You can do this walk yourself by starting from the Panjim Post office in Fontainhas.
Where to stay in Panjim, Goa?
As mentioned earlier, you can pick a heritage hotel in Fontainhas itself. I have already shared Panjim Inn for the same.
Panjim has tons of other hotels too. It would be advisable to stay around the 31st January road. There are a lot of shopping areas, cafes and restaurants in this area making it enjoyable and convenient for you. Check the booking resources below to find an option online.
Panjim is home to a lot of hostels too. These would be ideal for backpackers and students.
What is the best time to visit Fontainhas?
Goa is pleasant throughout the year. Any time of the year is the best time to visit it. However, when it comes to the heritage walk through Fontainhas, it is best to go early morning or early evening. This will give you some respite from the morning heat of Goa.
Fontainhas Festival in February is a good time to visit the Latin Quarters. This week-long fiesta is like an open art gallery. The houses display their heritage treasures. There is music and dance with artists not just from Goa, but across the world.
Travel Tips
- Here is the official website of Goa Tourism. You can refer to this for all the general tips on Goa.
- While you can do this walk yourself, you can also, opt for a guided tour with the various tour operators of Goa. Check the booking resources below for booking these tours online.
- Flat shoes and comfortable cotton clothes are recommended. Goa is quite humid throughout the year.
- These are still living quarters of various families in Goa. Hence, please be respectful of their privacy.
- You can take a break at any of the restaurants and cafes in this region. Remember to try some of the Goan delicacies that I had mentioned earlier. One spot that I suggest is the heritage Goan bakery – 31st January bakery, 🙂
- The walk can take you anything between one and half hours to two, all depending on your interest.
- It is a good idea to visit the Houses of Goa museum either before or after this walk. It adds a lot of perspective to what you have seen.
Booking Resources:
- Booking.com is a good website to book your Goa hotels. You can use this link to find a Panjim hotel that suits your budget.
- Klook.com has a guided heritage walking tour of Fontainhas available. You can book the same online using the link provided.
- GetyourGuide is another website that has similar tours. Here too, you can book your tour online.
- Consider using this link to get to Amazon for all your home and travel shopping .
Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links. This means that at no cost to you, I will receive a small commission if you purchase through my link. Thank you for supporting me with this.
Thanks to Goa tourism for hosting me and guiding me through this wonderful piece of heritage that we have.
Popularly referred to as a Restless Ball of Energy. My Mom refuses to entertain my complaints about my equally restless daughter & assures my husband that I was born with a travel bug.
I am a Post-Graduate in Marketing by qualification and a travel blogger by passion. Besides travel, I enjoy photography and if you don’t find me at my desk, I would be out playing badminton or swimming or just running. I believe in planning for every long weekend through the year. And when I cannot travel physically, I travel virtually through this travel blog. My travel stories have also, got published on various websites and magazines including BBC Travel, Lonely Planet India and Jetwings. I have recently published my first book – When Places Come Alive – a collection of stories that are based on legends, landscapes, art and culture of a place which is available in both ebook and paperback format.
Wonderful post! Comprehensive and informative.
Thank you Niranjan
Wow, I must say that this is the 1st post on Goa which I have read and there isn’t a single image of a beach. Plus every city has its own heritage and you did an fabulous work on narrating it. The houses looks amazing and quite peaceful. If you remove cars with Goa name plate, I wouldn’t even guessed that this is in India.
Indeed, it sure is a different part of India. Unique and nice. Thanks for stopping by.
Such a lovely article! Ami, Goa being so close to me I enjoy Fontainhas walk always.Btw dropping first time on your blog. Have you seen http://www.photokatha.in
Thanks Rutavi. Will be checking out your blog too.
Lovely, it was like a Goa heritage tour I took myself. Will experience it in my next visit
Am sure you will enjoy it. Thanks for stopping by.
very nice description, loved and enjoyed reading this post with beautiful pics. wish one day i will get chance to visit this place.
Thanks Jyotirmoy. I hope you visit it soon.
Wonderful captures Ami. The bakery is a must stop there.
Thanks Indrani
Indeed a heritage walk.. Beautiful post. 🙂
Thank you .
Such vibrant clicks! Lovely.
Thanks Bushra
Shades of pink and blue!Looks very colurful.
Thanks . It sure is a colorful place
Enjoyed every bit of reading it and loved the pics..sp.mention to that Tricolored Lobby 😉
Thanks Pooja. The Tricolored lobby was cool, wasn’t it?
So beautifully covered, Ami. I love the colourful houses. Did you manage to visit the Velha Goa Galeria? Lots of great buys there. And what about George’s for some authentic Goan food? 🙂
Thanks Corinne. I saw the Galeria from outside but did not get in. Did not know about George’s. Got to go again now 😀
Very informative post about the place and beautiful pictures!
Thanks Maitreni
Ami, pics are beatiful and you have shown us the other side of Goa. Got tired seeing beaches. How lovely the homes are decorated! Thanks for sharing info on it’s heritage.
Thanks Ramya. It is a fantastic tour of its history. You must do this the next time you are there.
This is such a wonderful post. Thank you for sharing Ami. Each time I visit your blog, my list of to visit keeps getting longer. 😉
Thanks Dipanwita. I hope you get to start ticking it off now :D. Hoping you get there soon.
I read about it earlier too, it is indeed amazing to be there
It sure was Alok. Thanks for stopping by
Beautiful post and photos.
Thanks Rupam
everything is so colorful here.. 🙂
It sure is :D. A lovely place indeed.
This is a different Goa than what we see in regular. I didn’t know of the mythological background. Wonderful pictures and loved the added information… 🙂
Thanks Maniparna. It was fun discovering it myself.
Been to Lady Imaculate..it was close on that day. I too wasn’t aware of the rich background and history but you’ve sprinkled wisdom. Gorgeous pictures. I remember the walk fountain at Panjim and love being ferried on bike doubling as taxi:)
Thanks Vishal. Goa is fun with its small nuances like the taxi bike
I love Fontainhas!! It is such a colourful happy place and has so much to explore and understand about old Goa! 😀 Loved the post.
Thanks Varsha.
The views really are spectacular and you are right, most writers/bloggers focus on the beaches and not the rest. It is nice to learn more about Goa and its history.
Thank you Sheri. Glad you liked it.
I love Goa for being this “strange” India 🙂
Thanks. That is what I think makes Goa what it is 😀
I think it was in Panjim that I was invited to a sikh temple for a Sikh-Hindu wedding ceremony! The city is so not similar to the relaxed beaches and villages of the rest of GOA
It is not too different nor that similar. But fun either ways. Am sure you had a good time. Thanks for stopping by.:)
Fontainhas looks so amazing with those colored houses and winding alleys. Some of the historical buildings are beautiful especially Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church is incredible!
Thanks. It sure does, the church looked amazing when lit up.
This is so interesting, I love reading about the diverse culture of Goa. The houses are so unique!
Thanks Evanne. It sure was fun discovering them.
This is Goa from a completely different angle. Never saw it in this fashion. Glad to see the coverage of really bright and colorful houses.
Thanks Sona. Most of us miss out on it. Blame it on the equally gorgeous beaches 😀
I’ve recently read an article about the Cucumber Festival in Goa, and this article gave me a wonderful description of Goa itself that I feel like I know the place as well as I can.
Thanks guys. Incidentally, my next article is on the Cucumber fest. Stay tuned 🙂
I love the colors of the houses. Heading to Goa in November so your article definitely helps me a lot. I love places filled with history.
Thanks Andra. Will sharing more of Goa soon. Stay tuned.
I went to Goa many times ago during my college days when I was in India but never visited Fontainhas! I’d love to visit Fontainhas if ever I will get a chance to visit Goa again!
Am sure you will have fun . Cheers
colorful buildings there, looks very beautiful and unique.
road there looks small. Eemmm … but good article and interesting to read.
Thanks Komang
So colorful. And quite an interesting history. I never thought Goa was colonized by Portugal. I always thought that it was the Brittish who had whole of India.
oh no, Portuguese had Goa and French had Pondicherry. We have a colorful history 😀
Have never been to Goa. But love the ambience you built up from your post. the colourful houses have definitely made this place on my list when I visit Goa.
Thanks Subhadrika. It sure is a lovely place. Definitely a must-see
It looks like a really nice area to walk around, and stop into a bakery for a snack.
It sure is. Thanks
I love those colorful houses! I’ve been to Portugal but I had no idea that the Portuguese had settled in Goa. Did they have Portuguese style egg tarts at the bakeries in Goa too?
Thanks Stella. It was fun. I did not check those out, will keep an eye for those tarts the next time I head there.
Would love to explore all these places when in Goa.Love the vibrant colours of Fontainhas.
Cheers,
Sriram & Krithiga
Thanks Krithiga. It is fun indeed.
I love towns like this. Towns that still contain the history of its origins. I fell in love with Goa with just reading you experience and seeing your pictures!
Thank you Roberta. Walking through is even better. Do come by soon for it
Oh, I always called Panjim as the best thing that happened to Goa, after Anjuna… Lovely pics and very descriptive post 🙂
Thank you Sriparna. Goa in general is beautiful. And with its heritage, even more interesting.
I love how colorful Fontainhas is! Lovely photos and such an interesting history. I love it when destinations blend history and culture like that, it gives you a real feel of the place you’re visiting.
Thank you. I agree, the blend of culture and heritage is what makes this even more interesting.
When I visited Goa, I only made it to the South but have heard a lot of good things about the Centre/North, mainly the history and the culture which is clearly evident from this blog and your photos. I didn’t realise it would be so colourful, love it! So much information is here, thank you!
Thanks. Goa in general is amazing. Maybe the next time you should visit the other parts of Goa. You are sure to have a lovely experience.
What beautiful and rustic homes full of colour and character! You’ve perfectly described the egg shell houses that match the photographs.
Thanks Suanlee. The egg shell houses are so cute.
Such a colorful post.. takes you to the colonial era and every picture has a story to tell…
Thanks Prasad. It definitely does take you to another era. Was an amazing place.
Wonderful photos. When I think of Goa I think of beaches so it is nice to read about other places to explore in Goa as well.
Thanks Christina. Most of us face that…we are so enamored by the beaches that we forget that there are other interesting aspects to Goa. Now you know what you need to visit the next time you are there 😀
It is so colorful! Everything is so bright and cheerful! Absolutely picture perfect!
Thanks. Bright and cheerful indeed and with a history that still lives.
I’m only learning about this side of Goa just now. I thought it was more of a beach destination (which I absolutely love) — but this heritage walk certainly adds another layer of color and culture to the city!
Thank you Liz. Stay tuned to my blog for more posts on Goa beyond beaches 😀
I love these beautifully colored houses, and the well-paved streets. It still looks and feel the Portuguese-ambiance which admittedly adds to its beauty. Its very interesting to know Goa’s history 🙂
Thanks Blair. I have not been to Portugal but from the pictures that I have seen of it and the stories that I hear, I understand that this part of Goa is just like the original country.
I can not believe how many Portuguese influences are still there today. Parts of it remind me of the Azores.
Thanks Cathy. India is a blend of a lot of cultures. It is fun discovering them. Have not been to Azores but have seen and read about it. Those rock formations really fascinate me.
Goa seems so beautiful! I love the mix of culture and architecture in this area. We are hoping for a chance to visit friends who live there!
You are reconciling me with Goa Ami! Generally, when I read about it, it’s only beach and parties. This area must be a fantastic visit.
Thanks Stephanie. There is so much to Goa that is beyond these beaches. Glad to bring those to you.
Wow, a totally different side of Goa. So cool! I do love wandering through neighborhoods, so a guided wander is just my thing. And this place is also really interesting in that the Catholic history and sites make it more relateable, at least to me. Everything in India fascinates me, but this feels familiar and draws me. I don’t know… 🙂
Thanks Rob.I am sure you will relate to a lot of sites in Goa. Thanks to the European influence here. Remember to combine this with the Houses of Goa museum. It will add a lot of perspective to the walk.
I love this part of Goa. So colurfully vivid and vibrant. Walking on these streets is such a pleasure, you fine something beautiful and rich in heritage round every corner.
Indeed. It is so much fun! I would love to do the heritage walk again myself.
Thank you Ami for bringing out the real essence of Fontainhas. Being a resident of the area (right next to St. Sebastian Chapel) I know that every thing you have written is absolutely true. I am also extremely glad that so many readers are enjoying a different side of Goa – away from the beaches that has always seemed like the identity of Goa. Thank you so much!
Thank you so much. This means a lot – glad that I was able to bring out the nuances well.
Just Linked to this post on our blog on Wedding chapels – Really good post!
Thank you. Glad you liked it.
Hey Ami! I just came across your blog post. I am going to visit Goa in a few days and after reading your post, I am really looking forward to visit Fountainhas.
I just have a small quick question.
Is taking our own private vehicle over there recommended? Can we park it somewhere and then walk by the streets of Fountainhas?
Parking is limited but available. You can park it around there but best to leave it in a public parking in Panjim and take an auto or walk done Fontanhas.
I love heritage buildings and quarters and Fontainhas is right up my alley. I’d explore this before hitting Goa’s beaches!
Oh you must, it is quite something. Cheers
It looks like such a beautiful place! I’m always a sucker for locations that are filled with color, and the fountains are really unique. I’d love to snap a few photos by some of the doors, too. Oh, and count me in for a bakery stop. Ha! Goa sounds like a fab place!
Colors and Fontainhas is just synonymous. And yes, you will love the place for that.
Wow what a wonderful heritage tour truly. I have been to Goa couple of times and explored quite a bit. However Fontainhas had never featured in my plans. The winding streets of Latin Quarters gives a feel of being in Portugal. The bakery and cafe would be a place I will not miss. All reasons enough to go back again.
Few people make that stop in Panjim, Mostly we are obsessed with the beaches. Time now to explore a different side. Hope you get to it soon.
My knowledge of Goa is pretty limited – I hadn’t realized that there was such a strong heritage with Portugal. It’s refreshing to read an article that is more focused on the heritage and architecture, than the beaches and the party reputation.
Trust me, Goa has much more than just the party culture and beach. The Portuguese connection is just the tip of that
What a wonderful post and beautiful photos on this part Goa. We spent one week in Goa during our 7 week travels throughout the Country a few seasons ago from Canada. Hope return one day very soon. You’ve done a great job on this post and have shared it as well. Thanks & Safe Travels – Robert 🙂
Thank you Robert. I hope you can return and see this for yourself sometime soon.
We are so sorry we missed Goa on our visit to India. We chose to head inland for a few days to visit the Taj Mahal. But I have read so much about Goa that interests me. You are right, people often start by raving about the beaches. While beaches are a great draw, it is always great to explore and learn more about the history. I do love the colourful houses in Fontainhas. Even if I don’t play games to find coloured houses anymore. The architectural elements people use to make their houses unique always interest me. But I must admit I am a sucker for balconies.
The smaller nuances of these homes are just amazing to capture. You will love it all, Linda.
It’s wild to see the photos of Fontainhas and compare them to Lisbon or Porto. The Portuguese influence is uncanny so their colonial history explains a lot about the buildings there. I was in Goa last year and loved the time I spent there, although I didn’t get to explore as much as I would have liked to.
I am yet to get to Lisbon and see the similarity for myself. However, the few posts that I have seen on that city, I can see the resemblance. Hope to visit there once.
Wow! Beautiful architecture and colorful buildings – I had no idea that places in Goa were like this. Absolutely great photography and virtual tour through Fontainhas.
Thank you Yara. That is a high praise.
I’ve read a lot about Goa and the more I read it, the more I want to visit. I would probably spend a lot of time on its beautiful beaches if I go, but I would also like to explore the colorful houses and the winding streets of the Old Latin Quarter. By the way, did the red fountain ever had water in it? To me it looks like it was transformed into a flower bed.
I think you are referring to the well and yes, that did have water.
I have never been to Goa, so this article was a great comprehensive introduction for me. I would love to visit the colorful houses of Fontainhas, they look so unique!
They are quite unique and I hope you can get there and see them for yourself.
This is such a detailed post on Fontainhas Panjim. I visited this place last year. But didn’t get enough time of exploring the corners of those narrow alleyways. Your post is helpful to understand the history and architectural patterns of those colorful houses. Loved the vibes of the place so much. Loved reading it.
Thanks Parnashree. It was fun visiting it over and over . Everytime showcased a new corner.
Interesting coverage of Goa heritage. Was there last year and visited few old houses, Portuguese. Would definitely like to see more of the ancient & the antique
Hope you can get to it again!
Woaaah that is one long lost, I read the 1st half and scrolled through remaining… was in Goa in sep for my birthday and it was such a different trip, the rains the nonstop rains… still managed to explore and visited Fontainhas as well..
I hope you have bookmarked it to get back to it later. Lots of people do – given the details it has for their own visit.
Hello there! I simply wish to give you a huge thumbs uup for the great information you’ve got
right here on this post. I am returning to your blog for more soon.
I am so glad that you found this useful. Looking forward to seeing you again!
As a resident of fontainhas, request all visitors to park their vehicles across the creek as otherwise it inconveniences the residents of the area. Come enjoy your walk, but do not disturb the serenity and tranquility of the latin quarters. Bem vindo
I can quite understand that. The roads are quite narrow and in a bid to explore, people do become a nuisance to your living area. I appeal to all my readers to please note this and adhere to the right parking spots so as to not cause inconvenience to its residents.