Casa Araujo Alvares: Unveiling the Timeless Grandeur of Goa’s Architectural Heritage

Step into the embrace of Goa’s enduring allure at Casa Araujo Alvares, a symphony of architectural magnificence ensconced in the verdant heart of the region. Beyond the mundane, this isn’t just a mansion; it’s an immersive voyage into the very essence of time, where each step unveils a tapestry of opulence, cultural richness, and unparalleled sophistication. With its spellbinding shell windows, soaring ceilings, and meticulously carved wooden masterpieces, Casa Araujo Alvares transcends the realm of mere dwelling. It’s a living canvas that breathes history, exudes culture, and epitomizes the zenith of sophistication.

Imagine stepping into a house that is more than just a house. A house that is a living museum, a cultural treasure, and a historical masterpiece. A house that tells the story of Goa, its rich heritage, its diverse influences, and its splendid architecture. Welcome to Casa Araujo Alvares, the ultimate destination for anyone who wants to experience the true essence of Goa.

Casa Araujo Alvares is not your ordinary residence. It is a stunning example of how the local traditions of Goa blended with the Portuguese legacy, creating a unique and harmonious style that is unmatched by any other. Every corner of this house reveals a new facet of Goa’s history, from the lavish interiors that reflect the high society of the past, to the intricate details that showcase the artistic skills of the craftsmen, to the symbolic elements that represent the fusion of cultures. Casa Araujo Alvares is not just a house; it is a journey through time, a celebration of diversity, and a tribute to excellence.

I visited this famous heritage house of Goa during my a week’s stay in this state.

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure? Are you eager to witness the wonders of Goa’s past and present? Then you can’t miss Casa Araujo Alvares, the architectural gem that is a priceless chapter in the colorful mosaic of Goan history. This house will amaze you with its beauty and its significance, as you discover how each room, each corridor, and each architectural nuance echoes with the spirit of a bygone era.  

As my penultimate day in Goa unfolded, I found myself drawn to the enchanting narrative of Casa Araujo Alvares, a decision inspired by my earlier exploration of the Bigfoot Museum. While seated in the cab, the pages of literature unfolded before me, painting a vivid picture of this astonishing abode that stood as a testimony to Goa’s culturally rich past.

Envisioning the culturally rich past described in my reading, Casa Araujo Alvares became more than a destination; it became a portal to another time. The anticipation heightened as I approached, eager to witness firsthand the living legacy that breathes life into the very soul of Goa.

Casa Araujo Alvares is more than just a house. It is a historical tapestry that reveals the rich and diverse heritage of Goa, its colonial past, and its cultural legacy. This 250-year-old mansion, located in the picturesque village of Loutolim, belongs to the Alvares family, who trace their ancestry back to the 16th century. The house was named after Eufemiano Araujo Alvares, a prominent lawyer and landowner during Portuguese rule. The house is now a private museum that showcases the life and times of a Goan-Portuguese family in the olden days.

The origin of Casa Araujo Alvares dates back to the 16th century, when the Portuguese arrived in Goa and established their rule. The Alvares family was one of the first families to convert to Christianity and adopt the Portuguese surname and culture. They acquired vast lands and wealth, and became influential in the society and politics of Goa. The family also intermarried with other prominent families, such as the Miranda, the Menezes, and the Figueiredo.

The house was built in the 18th century by Francisco Alvares, the grandfather of Eufemiano Araujo Alvares. It was designed in the Indo-Portuguese style, which blended the local architectural elements with the European influences. The house was constructed around an inner courtyard, which served as a central space for social and religious activities. The house also featured a chapel, which was dedicated to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception. The chapel was decorated with paintings, statues, and relics, and was used for daily prayers and masses.

The house was inherited by Eufemiano Araujo Alvares, who was born in 1855. He was a lawyer by profession, and also a poet, a writer, and a philanthropist. He was known for his generosity and hospitality, and often hosted lavish parties and events at his house. He was also a patron of arts and culture, and supported many local artists and musicians. He died in 1930, leaving behind his wife and seven children.

The house was passed on to his descendants, who continued to preserve and maintain it. In 1995, the house was opened to the public as a museum, as part of the Ancestral Goa tourist complex. The museum was set up by the Alvares family, in collaboration with the Big Foot Trust, a non-profit organization that promotes the preservation and promotion of Goan culture and heritage. The museum offers a guided tour of the house, with a sound and light show that narrates the history and significance of each room and item. The museum also displays a collection of thousands of Ganesh idols, and a prayer room with hundreds of icons of Jesus.

Casa Araujo Alvares is a marvel of architecture that showcases the elegance and sophistication of the Indo-Portuguese style. The house is built with laterite stones, which are reddish in color and durable in nature. The house has a sloping roof, which is covered with Mangalore tiles, which are made of clay and baked in kilns. The house has a symmetrical facade, with a wide entrance and a balcony above it. The entrance is flanked by two pillars, which are adorned with carved lions, the symbol of the Alvares family.

One of the most distinctive features of the house is the shell windows, which are made of oyster shells. The shells are cut into thin slices and arranged in wooden frames, creating a translucent effect. The shell windows allow natural light to enter the house, and also create a cooling effect. The shell windows are also decorated with floral motifs and geometric patterns, adding to the beauty and charm of the house.

The house has high ceilings, which are painted with floral designs and motifs. The ceilings also have wooden beams, which support the roof and add to the strength and stability of the house. The ceilings also have chandeliers, which are made of brass and glass, and provide illumination and elegance to the house.

The house is furnished with carved wooden furniture, which are made of teak, rosewood, and mahogany. The furniture are intricately carved with floral, animal, and human figures, and are polished and varnished to give them a glossy and smooth finish. The furniture include beds, wardrobes, chests, tables, chairs, sofas, cabinets, and mirrors. The furniture are also upholstered with velvet, silk, and brocade fabrics, and are embellished with lace, embroidery, and fringes. The furniture reflects the taste and status of the Alvares family, and also the influence of the European and Oriental styles.

Casa Araujo Alvares is a treasure trove of antiques, paintings, and period furniture, that reflect the cultural legacy of Goa, its colonial past, and its diverse influences. The house displays a variety of items that belong to different eras, regions, and genres, and that showcase the artistic and aesthetic skills of the craftsmen and artists.

Some of the antiques that can be seen in the house are:

• A collection of porcelain and ceramic ware, that include plates, bowls, cups, saucers, vases, and figurines. The ware are made of fine china, and are painted with floral, animal, and human motifs. The ware are imported from China, Japan, and Europe, and are examples of the trade and commerce that existed between Goa and other countries.
• A collection of silver and brass ware, that include trays, bowls, spoons, forks, knives, candlesticks, and lamps. The ware are made of silver and brass, and are engraved with floral, animal, and geometric motifs. The ware are used for serving and eating food, and also for lighting and decoration. The ware are examples of the metalwork and craftsmanship that prevailed in Goa and other parts of India.
• A collection of clocks and watches that include wall clocks, table clocks, pocket watches, and wrist watches. The clocks and watches are made of wood, metal, and glass, and are fitted with mechanical and quartz movements. The clocks and watches display the time, date, and other features, and also play musical tunes and chimes. The clocks and watches are imported from Europe, America, and Japan, and are examples of the technology and innovation that developed over the years.

Some of the paintings that can be seen in the house are:

• • A painting of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, which is placed above the altar in the chapel. The painting depicts the Virgin Mary surrounded by angels and clouds, and holding a rosary in her hand. The painting is a copy of the original one that is in the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa.
  • A painting of the Last Supper, which is hung on the wall in the dining room. The painting shows Jesus and his disciples having their final meal before his crucifixion. The painting is a copy of the famous one by Leonardo da Vinci, and was brought from Europe by the Alvares family.
  • A painting of Eufemiano Araujo Alvares, which is displayed in his office. The painting portrays the owner of the house in his lawyer’s attire, holding a book and a pen. The painting was done by a local artist named Angelo da Fonseca, who was a friend and a protégé of Eufemiano Araujo Alvares.
  • A painting of a Goan village scene, which is exhibited in the drawing room. The painting depicts the rural life and culture of Goa, with people working in the fields, children playing, and animals grazing. The painting was done by a famous Goan artist named Antonio Xavier Trindade, who was known as the Rembrandt of the East.

Step beyond the threshold of Casa Araujo Alvares, and you step into a time capsule where daily life in Goa unfolds in vivid detail. This section delves into the intricacies of daily life within the mansion, exploring the routines, traditions, and nuances that colored the existence of those who once called Casa Araujo Alvares home. From the bustling activities in the kitchen to the serene moments in the courtyard, every corner bears witness to a lifestyle steeped in tradition.

The kitchen, or the cozinha, was the heart of the house, where the aromas of Goan cuisine filled the air. The kitchen was equipped with a variety of traditional utensils, wares, and tools, such as the chulha (a clay stove), the tizal (a metal tripod), the koddi (a ladle), and the borma (a wooden box for storing spices). The kitchen also had a forno (an oven) and a fogao (a fireplace), both influenced by Portuguese architecture. The kitchen staff, mostly women, prepared dishes such as sorpotel (a spicy pork curry), xitt codi (rice and curry), sannas (steamed rice cakes), and bebinca (a layered pudding), using ingredients such as coconut, vinegar, tamarind, and palm jaggery.

The courtyard, or the quintal, was the center of the house, where the family gathered for prayers, celebrations, and leisure. The courtyard featured a chapel at its center, dedicated to the patron saint of the house, Nossa Senhora da Piedade (Our Lady of Mercy). The chapel was adorned with religious artifacts, such as statues, paintings, and icons, reflecting the Catholic faith of the family. The courtyard also had a tanque (a water tank), a poço (a well), and a fonte (a fountain), providing water for the household. The courtyard was surrounded by balcoes (balconies) and varandas (verandas), where the family enjoyed the breeze and the view of the garden.

Goa’s historical landscape is marked by the profound influence of Portuguese colonialism, and Casa Araujo Alvares stands as a living testament to this epoch. Unravel the layers of influence that Portuguese colonialism left on the architecture, lifestyle, and cultural practices within the mansion. From religious artifacts to architectural motifs, discover how Casa Araujo Alvares reflects the symbiotic relationship between Goan identity and Portuguese heritage.

The architecture of Casa Araujo Alvares is a blend of Goan and Portuguese styles, creating a unique and elegant aesthetic. The house is built with laterite (a red soil) and basalt (a black stone), both locally available materials. The house has a sloping tiled roof and wooden rafters, typical of Goan houses. The house also has azulejos (painted tiles), pilasters (decorative columns), and arches, influenced by Portuguese design. The house is divided into two sections: the sala (the hall) and the camara (the chamber). The sala is the public area, where the family received guests and conducted business. The camara is the private area, where the family lived and slept. The house has a symmetrical layout, with rooms arranged around the courtyard.

The lifestyle of Casa Araujo Alvares is a fusion of Goan and Portuguese cultures, creating a rich and diverse way of living. The family followed the Catholic religion, attending mass, celebrating festivals, and observing rituals. The family also retained some aspects of Hindu culture, such as wearing saris (traditional garments), using sindoor (a red powder), and honoring ancestors. The family spoke Konkani (the local language), as well as Portuguese (the official language). The family enjoyed music, dance, and art, influenced by both Goan and Portuguese traditions. The family also traveled extensively, visiting Portugal, Brazil, and other parts of the world.

The artifacts and exhibits within Casa Araujo Alvares serve as bridges connecting the past to the present. This segment scrutinizes the diverse collection housed within the mansion, each piece telling a story of its own. Whether it’s a relic from daily life, a piece of colonial-era furniture, or a religious artifact, each exhibit contributes to the tapestry of Goan history. Explore the curatorial choices made in preserving these artifacts, highlighting the meticulous efforts to maintain a delicate balance between conservation and storytelling.

One of the most remarkable artifacts in Casa Araujo Alvares is the desk of Eufemiano Araujo Alvares, the owner of the house and a prominent lawyer during the colonial period. The desk is made of rosewood and has secret drawers and corners, where Eufemiano stored his important documents and valuables. The desk also has a collection of antique smoking pipes, some of which were gifts from his clients and friends. The desk is a symbol of Eufemiano’s status, intellect, and influence in Goan society.

Another notable artifact in Casa Araujo Alvares is the collection of Ganesh idols, displayed in one of the rooms. The collection consists of thousands of idols of Ganesh, the elephant-headed Hindu god of wisdom and success. The idols are made of various materials, such as clay, wood, metal, and stone. The idols are of different sizes, shapes, and colors, representing the diversity and creativity of Goan artisans. The collection is a tribute to the Hindu heritage of Goa, as well as a sign of the family’s respect and tolerance for other faiths.

A third remarkable artifact in Casa Araujo Alvares is the prayer room with hundreds of icons of Jesus hanging in it. The icons are painted on glass, a technique known as reverse glass painting. The icons depict various scenes from the life of Jesus, such as his birth, crucifixion, and resurrection. The icons are of different styles, some influenced by European art, and some by Indian art. The icons are a testament to the family’s devotion to Christianity, as well as a reflection of the artistic exchange between Goa and the rest of the world.

In unraveling the cultural resonance of Casa Araujo Alvares, we not only peek into the daily lives of those who lived within its walls but also trace the indelible imprints of Portuguese colonialism on Goan heritage. The artifacts and exhibits, carefully curated and displayed, serve as conduits that bridge the gap between the past and the present, inviting visitors to engage with the vibrant history that pulses through every corner of this architectural marvel.

The Gardens: Oasis of Tranquility

Venturing beyond Casa Araujo Alvares reveals a verdant oasis, the meticulously landscaped gardens that envelop the mansion. This section explores the horticultural marvels that grace the grounds, providing a serene backdrop to the grandeur of the mansion. From indigenous flora to themed green spaces, delve into the botanical richness that adds another layer of charm to the overall Casa Araujo Alvares experience.

The gardens of Casa Araujo Alvares are a testament to the family’s love for nature and beauty. The gardens are divided into different sections, each with its own theme and character. Some of the sections are:

• The Rose Garden: A romantic and fragrant space, filled with roses of various colors and varieties. The roses are carefully pruned and maintained, creating a stunning visual effect. The rose garden also has a gazebo, where visitors can relax and enjoy the view.
• The Orchid Garden: A tropical and exotic space, showcasing orchids of different shapes and sizes. The orchids are grown in pots, baskets, and trellises, creating a vibrant display of colors and textures. The orchid garden also has a pond, where visitors can see fish and water lilies.
• The Spice Garden: A culinary and aromatic space, featuring spices and herbs that are used in Goan cuisine. The spice garden has plants such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, pepper, and vanilla, among others. The spice garden also has a demonstration area, where visitors can learn about the cultivation and use of spices.
• The Butterfly Garden: A whimsical and ecological space, attracting butterflies and other pollinators. The butterfly garden has plants that provide nectar and host plants for butterflies, such as marigold, zinnia, lantana, and milkweed. The butterfly garden also has a netted enclosure, where visitors can see butterflies up close.

The grounds surrounding Casa Araujo Alvares are not merely ornamental but serve as canvases for thematic installations and exhibits. Uncover the curated displays that seamlessly integrate with the natural landscape, offering visitors an immersive experience that extends beyond the mansion walls. Each installation tells a story, amplifying the narrative of Goa’s cultural and historical heritage.

Some of the installations and exhibits are:

• The Big Foot: A giant footprint-shaped structure, made of laterite stone, that symbolizes the legend of Mahadar, a benevolent giant who helped the villagers in times of need. The big foot is said to grant wishes to those who step on it with faith and respect.
• The Sculpture Garden: A collection of sculptures, made of stone, wood, metal, and clay, that depict various aspects of Goan life and culture. The sculptures range from realistic to abstract, from traditional to contemporary, from religious to secular. The sculpture garden also has a workshop, where visitors can see local artists at work.
• The Art Gallery: A display of paintings, drawings, and photographs, that portray the beauty and diversity of Goa. The art gallery features works by renowned Goan artists, such as Mario Miranda, Vamona Navelcar, and Francis Newton Souza, among others. The art gallery also has a souvenir shop, where visitors can buy prints and postcards.
• The Ancestral Goa: A miniature model of a typical Goan village, that recreates the rural life and architecture of Goa under Portuguese rule. The ancestral Goa has replicas of houses, churches, temples, markets, and fields, made with authentic materials and techniques. The ancestral Goa also has a museum, where visitors can see artifacts and exhibits related to Goan history.

Casa Araujo Alvares goes beyond passive observation, offering interactive experiences that engage visitors in a dynamic exploration of Goan history. This segment sheds light on the hands-on activities and immersive encounters designed to captivate and educate. Whether it’s traditional craft workshops, storytelling sessions, or guided tours, Casa Araujo Alvares transforms into a living, breathing space where history comes alive for every visitor.

Some of the interactive experiences are:

• The Sound and Light Show: A multimedia presentation that illuminates and narrates the story of Casa Araujo Alvares and its inhabitants. The sound and light show uses special effects, music, and voice-overs, to highlight the features and details of each room in the mansion. The sound and light show runs every 15 minutes, in English and Hindi.
• The Pottery Workshop: A hands-on activity that teaches visitors how to make pottery using clay and a wheel. The pottery workshop is led by a skilled potter, who demonstrates and guides the visitors through the process. The pottery workshop also allows visitors to take home their creations as souvenirs.
• The Storytelling Session: A cultural activity that entertains and educates visitors with stories and legends from Goa. The storytelling session is conducted by a professional storyteller, who uses props, costumes, and gestures, to bring the stories to life. The storytelling session also encourages visitors to participate and interact with the storyteller.