| No one coloured his house all
white as a mark of respect to Churches and crosses which
were painted white. Initially these were coloured in vegetable
and natural dyes. Gateways to the houses were lofty and
elegant in the 18th century later they were replaced by
towering gateways. The facade of most houses was symmetrical
with the entrance door occupying the place of honour.
Railings were the most intricate embellishment in a Goan
house. Pillars, piers and colours do not seem to be influenced
by any style in particular. Windows gradually become more
decorative, ornate and expressive. Almost all Goan houses
have a false ceiling of wood. The Kitchen in Goan house
was at the fartherest end of the house and every househad
an area dedicated to the deity.
The houses of Goa have a story to tell. It is fascinating
and at once gripping with the mingling of architecture
designs that is oft known as the Indo-Portuguese style
unravelling the unique blend of Hindu and Christian homes
over centuries, making Goaa bedrock of secular India
|
