Explore India's Only Latin Quarter
Frozen in time, Fontainhas is an old Latin Quarter in Panjim, capital city of the state of Goa, India. Located at the foot of the Altinho Hills, it is surrounded with springs to the west and an ancient creek called Ourem to the east. The place beautifully showcases its Portuguese heritage mainly through its architecture, which includes narrow and picturesque winding streets like those in European cities, old villas and buildings with balconies painted in traditional tones of pale yellow, green, or blue, and roofs made of red coloured tiles. As one steps out in the streets, one is bound to be mesmerised by the charming cafes, beautiful homes, art gallery, and heritage hotels. It is the perfect place for those who love art, history and the charming beauty of life itself.
Things to explore at Latin Quarters in Goa
Walking Tour
The best thing to do when in Fountainhas is to step onto the streets with your loved ones, and go on a walking tour of the place. As you go around the charming neighbourhood, you will stumble across many hidden gems, from a few exotic stairways on one end, to elegantly pained houses and quaint buildings. Simply take in all that the place has to offer, or go on a photography spree. Immerse yourself in the local culture of the town with its rich architecture, music, religion and food!
Explore the Goan Culture
From Panjim’s oldest bakery with traditional Goan treats, to musicians that will strike a chord with their music — the town is bound to find a place within your hearts. The charming restaurants in Fountainhas serve a medley of Goan flavours on a plate, with pleasing live music to top off the whole dining experience. Another place to visit is Velha Goa, which specializes in traditional hand painted azulejos. Art fanatics can also visit Gitanjali Gallery, located in the heart of Fountainhas. The gallery features a lot of original artwork, ideal for people wanting to take home a slice of the Goan paradise.
The Holy St. Sebastian’s Chapel
In the midst of all the colour of this lively town lies St. Sabastian Chapel. The chapel was built in 1818 and is dedicated to St. Sebastian, known for his miraculous interventions. Many locals believe that the crucifix in the church has special powers to heal. Tucked away at the end of a lane in Fontainhas, this quaint little church has a pacifying charm of its own. If you’re planning on a self-guided tour, this is the perfect start for it.
amã Stays & Trails in Latin Quarters, Goa
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Fountainhas, La Maison Fontainhas is one of the best villa or bungalows in Latin Quarters in Panjim featuring elegant and sophisticated 8 rooms. This colourful colonial neighbourhood in Panjim is one of the only Latin Quarters in Asia. Near the villa lie narrow winding lanes, masses of bright bougainvillaea flowers, and overhanging wooden balconies all together make you feel you are walking in Old Havana or New Orleans’ Latin Quarter. La Maison also houses Desbue - which is a renowned, quaint restaurant serving European Cuisine along with Indian and Goan Cuisine ideal for a luncheon or dinner. The restaurant welcomes both residents and non-residents.