Overview
Goan houses have their own particular charms charm – They do things differently here and its quite often that we find people have misunderstood and misinterpreted the grammar of the architecture as being of Portuguese provenance, when it may not well be the case. In fact, as we learn from the experts such as Goan architect and Secretary of Goa Heritage Action Group Raya Shankhwalker “The use of local materials, crafts and skills make the Western-influenced Goan house a unique architectural expression.” And truth be told these unique Goan structures are not to be found anywhere else in the world. As shared by one writer: "When the Portuguese ran out of money and energy by the cusp of the 18th century, almost all the buildings that followed until decolonisation in 1961 were triggered, conceived and executed by ambitious native.”
Each one of them has a story to tell - the reasons they were built the way they were, the rains they have witnessed, and of course, the stories that took place there. We venture on a unique mission with our series on Houses of Goa - to decode these secrets. It will include some authentic local snacks. Apart from the houses, there will be stories about the village – and its making.
Why you will love it
- To get a hands-on understanding of this quaint and serene village in North Goa and the conflict about native Goan architecture and Portuguese architecture
- Discovering through well-loved stories of its the past about what makes it tick and what is it that makes its homes and their inhabitants so welcoming to visitors
What you will experience
In this trail, we will visit prominent houses in the village, and enjoy the stories about the house. Our local hosts know how to pull out all the stops when it comes to being warm and welcoming of guests, so there’s no holding back when you tuck into the special treats, and enchanting stories they serve with that brimming hospitality.
Our tour also takes us on a nostalgia trip as we wind back to yesteryears when we visit the Saligao club and meet villagers who enjoyed dancing in this club. Awesome experiences await at the only Gothic church in Goa and some special artefacts brought from Old Goa which are enshrined here. Intrigue and delight accompany our exploration of a ward and chapel in which all the villagers have the same middle name.