Discovering Fontainhas: Goa's COLOURFUL & ENCHANTING PORTUGUESE Quarter!

Picture this: narrow, winding streets lined with vibrant houses, the aroma of freshly baked Portuguese pastries wafting through the air, and the distant sound of Fado music. No, you're not in Lisbon – welcome to Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panjim, Goa!

A Slice of Portugal in India

Nestled in the heart of Panjim, Fontainhas is like a time capsule that transports you straight to 18th century Portugal. As you stroll through its charming alleys, you'll find yourself wondering if you've accidentally stumbled into a European town!

Fontainhas showcases a remarkable blend of Portuguese and Indian architectural styles, characterized by vibrant facades, ornate balconies, and red-tiled roofs. The narrow, winding streets are lined with colorful houses painted in traditional hues of pale yellow, green, and blue, reminiscent of Mediterranean towns.

Notable architectural features include:

• Projecting balconies (balcões) adorned with intricate wrought-iron railings

• Oyster shell windows that filter sunlight and provide ventilation

• Sloping roofs covered with red Mangalore tiles

• Decorative azulejos (Portuguese ceramic tiles) adorning building exteriors

• Roosters, a symbol of Portugal, often featured on pillars and walls

But how did this little piece of Portugal end up in India? Well, it's quite a tale!

The Birth of Fontainhas

Our story begins with a wealthy Portuguese colonist named Antonio Joao de Sequeira. Back in the late 18th century, he decided to turn this area into a coconut plantation. Little did he know that his humble plantation would evolve into one of Goa's most iconic neighborhoods!

The name "Fontainhas" comes from "Fonte Phoenix" or "Fountain of Phoenix" in Portuguese. Why? Because of a natural spring at the foot of the Altinho hills. Talk about a poetic name!

From Plagues to Prosperity

Now, here's where it gets interesting. In the early 19th century, Old Goa (the former Portuguese capital) was hit by a series of nasty plagues. Yikes! This led to a mass exodus, with the Portuguese government packing up and moving to Panjim.

Guess where the Portuguese bigwigs decided to set up their new digs? You got it – Fontainhas! Between 1810 and 1839, this quiet neighborhood transformed into the hippest place for Portuguese officers and rulers to live.

A Feast for the Eyes

One of the best things about Fontainhas is its drop-dead gorgeous architecture. It's like someone took a chunk of Lisbon and dropped it right in the middle of Goa!

Here's what you can expect to see:

• Narrow streets that make you feel like you're in a maze (but in a good way!)

• Old villas with balconies that look straight out of a fairytale

• Houses painted in eye-popping colours – think sunshine yellow, mint green, and sky blue

• Red-tiled roofs that add a pop of colour to the skyline

It's no wonder UNESCO slapped a Heritage Zone label on this place in 1984!

Local Cafes, Bars and Restaurants

Fontainhas, offers a delightful array of local cafes and restaurants that capture the essence of Goan-Portuguese cuisine and culture. Discover charming eateries tucked away in converted houses.

Here are some highly recommended spots:

• Larder & Folk

• Bombay Coffee Roosters

• Confeitaria 31de Janeiro

• Caravela

• The White Balcao

• Viva Panjim

• Joseph Bar

• Hotel Venite

More Than Just Pretty Buildings

But Fontainhas isn't just about looking pretty. This neighbourhood is buzzing with culture!

Did you know it's one of the few places in Goa where you can still hear Portuguese being spoken? And if you're lucky enough to visit during the Sao Joao Festival, you're in for a treat. The whole neighborhood comes alive to celebrate the arrival of the monsoon.

Art lovers, mark your calendars for February. That's when Fontainhas hosts its annual art and culture festival. It's a great way to soak up some Goan heritage and maybe pick up a unique souvenir or two.

A Living Museum

Today, Fontainhas is like a living, breathing museum. It's a place where the past and present dance together in perfect harmony. You can explore art galleries, shop at quirky boutiques, or sip on some coffee at a charming café – all while surrounded by centuries of history.

Here's a fun fact: every year after the monsoon, the residents of Fontainhas get together to repaint their houses. It's a tradition that goes back to the Portuguese days and helps keep the neighbourhood looking fresh and fabulous.

Come and Experience the Magic!

Fontainhas isn't just another tourist spot - it's a living, breathing time capsule where Portuguese colonial charm meets Indian warmth. It's where every painted wall tells a story, every winding street leads to a discovery, and every visit feels like stepping into a different era while remaining firmly in the present.

Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone who loves exploring unique places, Fontainhas offers an experience that's truly one of a kind in India. It's not just a neighbourhood; it's a masterpiece painted with the colours of two cultures!

So, the next time you're in Goa, take a break from the beaches and head to Fontainhas. Walk its colourful streets, chat with the friendly locals, and immerse yourself in its unique Indo-Portuguese vibe. Trust me, it's an experience you won't forget!

Who knows? You might just fall in love with this little slice of Portugal in India. I know I did!

Here are a few pictures I captured on my photowalk in Fontainhas, Panjim, Goa. 👇