Fontainhas (quarter)
Fontainhas is an old Latin Quarter in Panjim, Goa, characterized by its narrow streets and Portuguese-era houses.
Best time Late afternoon, early evening
Something wrong here?
The story
The architecture in Fontainhas reflects its Portuguese heritage, with houses painted in vibrant colors like green, yellow, and blue. Many homes feature projecting balconies and red-tiled roofs, a style maintained due to a 19th-century decree requiring all houses to be repainted annually after the monsoon. The quarter is located at the foot of Altinho hills, bordering an old creek known as Ourem Creek. This area was established in the late 18th century by a wealthy Portuguese man, Antonio Joao de Sequeira, who used it as a coconut plantation. Today, Fontainhas is a residential area with a few guesthouses, art galleries, and small eateries. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History notes
Fontainhas was designated a conservation zone by UNESCO. The name "Fontainhas" means "little fountain" in Portuguese, referring to a spring at the base of the Altinho hills.
Best time
Late afternoon, early evening
Heads up
The streets are narrow; awareness of local traffic is advisable. Some areas may have uneven pavements.
Sketches from the community
No community sketches yet. Add yours →
Tips for sketching here
No tips yet for Fontainhas (quarter).