The
architecture of Goa is a delightful combination of India, Mughal and
Portugal styles. Since the Portuguese ruled this place for two
centuries, many churches and houses bear a striking element of the
Portugal style of architecture. Goa was also under the Mughal rule and
thus one finds monuments built in the typical Mughal style complete with
the domes. The typical Goan architecture is very simple and easy going
and is visible in buildings like modern churches, houses, etc.
By the end of the 18th century, there was a sea change in style of
buildings in Goa. Though the Portugal essence remained, there was an
overdose of colors and usage of tiles increased. Blue and red turned out
to be favorite colors with many houses being painted in bright blues and
the roofs being covered by red tiles. The houses are usually large and
have spacious rooms with windows for ventilation. Each house also has a
separate room or secluded space for keeping the idol or photographs of
their Gods thus indicating how religious the Goans are.
Most of the houses have the bust of Jesus Christ at the entrance.
Central staircases leading to verandahs and balconies upstairs are a
unique feature of the architecture of Goa. The windows are usually
curved inwards that are glazed with glass or oyster shells. A central
courtyard is yet another feature of Goan architecture. The architecture
of Goa is not that complex and has the unique yet smooth blend of
different architectural styles.
