Walk into the Latin Quarter of Goa, and the Fernandes House will enthral you. It is a perfect example of Portuguese architecture at its best. This architectural beauty is located in the active area of Fontainhas, which gives tourists a glimpse of colonial Goa. In light of its many features and historical value, Fernandes House remains a significant attraction for historians and lovers of architecture.
About Fernandes House
The colourful Fernandes House is a refined Indo-Portuguese architectural style in the Latin Quarter of Goa, Fontainhas. This conventional structure was developed in the late 18th century and has retained most of its original features.
Location: 31st January Road, Fontainhas, Panaji, Goa 403001. Located approximately 2 km from Panaji city centre.
Timings: 09:00 – 17:00 (Open daily)
How to Reach:
- By Bus: Take a local bus to Panaji and walk to Fontainhas.
- By Taxi: Hire a taxi from your location to Fernandes House.
- By Car: Drive to Fontainhas and park nearby. The house is within walking distance.
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children (ages 5-12), free for children under 5
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Fernandes House: Historical Significance And Architectural Marvel
The Fernandes House is an integral part of Goa architecture. The Fernandes family, an affluent business family of colonial rule by Portugal, earlier owned it. The house captured the Goan history and cultural change from the colonial masters’ rule to India’s independence and the following years.
Facade: Outside white and yellow walls are common in Goan houses, mainly those built under the Portuguese regime. As previously mentioned, this colour was used to counter the effects of the intense sun in the tropics and to cool the interiors.
Balcony: It has a lovely balcony, which refers to a covered patio at the house’s entrance. This area was used as a living room where people, mostly from families, could sit and interact with neighbours or observe street activities.
Oyster Shell Windows: Observe the windows more carefully; they are fitted with frosted oyster shells instead of glass. This particular aspect allows soft and diffused light to be admitted inside the space while protecting people’s privacy.
Nearby Attractions Of Fernandes House
Fontainhas, the neighbourhood where Fernandes House is located, is a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions. Here are some nearby places you shouldn’t miss:
1. Fontainhas Heritage Walk
Take a heritage walk tour to Fontainhas, the Latin Quarters of Goa, and experience the old-world feel. The streets are pretty narrow and winding, but while walking through them, one cannot help but marvel at the beautiful Portuguese-style houses painted in distinct colours. Beautifully laid out architecture poses as the wonders one would enjoy, tourists and travellers alike!
Location: Starts at São Tomé Chapel, Fontainhas, Panaji
Timings: 09:00 – 11:00 and 16:00 – 18:00 (daily)
Distance: 0.2 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: ₹500 per person
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2. Our Lady Of The Immaculate Conception Church
Image Credit: Vyacheslav Argenberg for Wikipedia
This pretty white church with a really out-of-the-ordinary zigzag staircase is one of the most immediately recognizable buildings in Panaji. Ernesto’s church was constructed in 1541 on a hill that provides a vantage point over the city below. While its exterior is plain and subdued, the interior is profusely ornamented; ‘there are gilt altars and a large bell, which was originally installed in the Augustinian Monastery in Old Goa.’
Location: R. Emidio Garcia, Panaji, Goa 403001
Timings: 09:30 – 12:30 and 15:30 – 19:30 (daily)
Distance: 1 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: Free
3. Goa State Museum
Image Credit: Aaron C for Wikimedia Commons
The Goa State Museum’s artefacts will take you further back into Goa’s history. This all-embracing museum currently displays over 8,000 artefacts distributed in 14 galleries. Collections range from the Stone Age to modern art, thus providing a bird’ s-eye view of Goan culture and history.
Location: EDC Complex, Patto, Panaji, Goa 403001
Timings: 09:30 – 17:30 (Closed on Sundays and public holidays)
Distance: 2.5 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
Related Post: Museums In Goa
4. Menezes Braganza House
Image Credit:Anton Nossik for Wikimedia Commons
The Menezes Braganza House is yet another architectural gem of Indo-Portuguese style; this mansion is often described as the largest in Goa. Getting its start in the 17th century, it is a large house consisting of two wings, and in one of them – the Braganza family started its living, while in the other – their relatives. Filled with antique relics, furniture, and old Goan architectural design, this place has a rich heritage showcasing old Goan culture’s history.
Location: Chandor, Goa 403714
Timings: 10:00 – 17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
Distance: 35 km from Panaji city centre
Entry Fee: ₹100 per person
5. Reis Magos Fort
Image Credit: Ulhas deshmukh for Wikimedia Commons
Located on the hillock that defines the Draft of Mandovi River, Reis Magos Fort gives you a view that is as rich as it is historical. Construction on the building began in 1551, and it was used as a defence fortress and then as a prison. The fort was recently restored and has a cultural centre and art gallery with Goan themes. The excellent landscape of the river and the new part of Panaji can be viewed during the walk through the ramparts and chambers of the fort.
Location: Reis Magos, Bardez, Goa 403114
Timings: 09:30 – 17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
Distance: 10 km from Panaji city centre
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
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The tour of Fernandes House and other sites and places of interest presented here gives you a fascinating insight into the Goan way of life. For instance, such buildings as Indo-Portuguese architecture and the colourful locality of Fontainhas are actual examples of Goa’s history. If you want to get the most out of this beautiful coastal state of India, it would be better to map out a complete tour of Goa. Get the trip to Goa to build your ideal Goan journey, history, and the beach.
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Cover Image Credit : Goldadcosta for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Fernandes House
If one wants to make the most of their stay in Fernandes House, when should they go?
The best time for travelling is during November, December, January, and February because the climate is comparatively moderate. As with any hiking trip, the best time is either early or late afternoon to avoid high temperatures and have the best light for photography.
Is it possible to be taken through the Fernandes House?
Of course, you can request for guided tours. To avoid scarcity, it is advised to book for the camping areas in advance, especially during the middle of the year or during summer.
What is the restriction, if any, on photographing at Fernandes House?
Yes, photography is allowed in most of the rooms at Fernandes House. Still, flash photography may be prohibited in some rooms because of the fragility of the items.
Is Fernandes House friendly to differently-abled people for any mobility impairment?
It has been noted that certain developments have been made in this regard. However, some house members might find it difficult to move around, particularly if they have issues with mobility because of the historic structure. The specific accessibility information, however, may need to be arranged in advance with the management.
Can any restaurant be recommended for its customers around Fernandes House?
Yes, there are several very good eating places in the Fontainhas area where Goan, as well as international food, is available. Two of the most famous are Viva Panjim, located within walking distance, and The Black Sheep Bistro.
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References
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