Fontainhas, also known as Bairro das Fontainhas in Portuguese, is a charming old Latin Quarter in Panjim, the capital of Goa, India.
The area beautifully preserves its Portuguese heritage, especially that seen in its architecture. The neighborhood has narrow, winding streets reminiscent of European cities, with old villas and ornate buildings with jutting balconies painting these buildings in traditional soft reds, greens and blues, and distinctive red tile roofs.
The unique setting of Fontenhas reflects the deep-rooted Portuguese influence that continues to shape this scenic part of Goa.
Fontainhas, established in the late eighteenth century by Goan expatriate António João de Sequeira, also known as Mossmikar, is a historic neighborhood in Panjim, Goa. Sequeira, who amassed wealth in Mozambique, named the area after a spring that began to flow around 1770. Fontainhas is modeled after Lisbon’s Bairro Alto.
In 1844, a government administrator aimed to instill a sense of order and propriety in Goa, mandating that even the lower strata of society should dress properly in public. He constructed an elegant street with a parapet called Rua Nova d’Ouremsea on the seaward side of Fontainhas and also created the Phenis fountain, complete with a façade and porch.
Fontainhas is renowned for its old houses built in the 18th and 19th centuries, showcasing Portuguese architectural style. These houses retain their original charm with red-tiled roofs and walls painted in pale yellow, green, or blue. The Fundacão Orienté, a Portuguese public organization dedicated to restoring heritage buildings in Goa, is also located in this part of Panjim.
One notable landmark is Fonte Phoenix, a well fed by a natural spring, which has been carefully refurbished. Additionally, Fontainhas is home to numerous art galleries that also house exotic cafes, adding to the vibrant cultural atmosphere of the area.
Walking through the narrow lanes of Fontainhas feels like stepping back in time. The facades of the houses, adorned with vibrant colors, windows, and balconies gracefully overlooking the labyrinthine streets, beckon travelers to explore further. Unlike the haphazard chaos of many urban areas, Fontainhas and its lanes are meticulously kept, a testament to the pride and reverence its residents hold for their heritage.
One fascinating tradition that has endured through the centuries is the annual painting of houses after the monsoons, a practice mandated by Portuguese law during their rule. Today, this tradition lives on not just as a legal obligation but as a cherished ritual, symbolizing a deep-rooted connection to the past and a commitment to preserving the area’s unique identity.
Fontainhas Festival: Celebrating Art and Heritage in Goa
Every February, Fontainhas, Goa’s historic neighborhood, hosts a week-long festival that transforms its streets into vibrant galleries. Residents open their homes to display artworks celebrating Goan heritage and architectural beauty. The festival, aimed at preserving local culture, features music and dance performances, drawing artists from around the world. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich tapestry of Goan artistry while fostering connections within the creative community. Don’t miss the chance to experience the charm of Fontainhas and its lively festival atmosphere.
Fontainhas isn’t just a neighborhood; it’s a living museum, a testament to the enduring legacy of Goa’s Indo-Portuguese heritage. So, if you find yourself in this coastal haven, be sure to wander off the beaten path and lose yourself in the timeless charm of Fontainhas – a treasure trove of history, culture, and architectural splendor waiting to be discovered.