Goa is known for its vibrant tourism with its stunning Goan villas, traditional wadas, and modern Goan houses lining the scenic streets. These picturesque homes are nestled among lush plantations and swaying trees in Goa. But have you ever paid attention to the intriguing details on the roofs of these old houses?

Take a closer look, and you’ll notice terracotta figures perched on the entrance gateways and atop the roofs. These old Portuguese houses in the Goa residential area date back 150 to 400 years. The tradition of placing these figures on the rooftops has been there from the beginning, though living in Goa many homeowners may not know their history or meaning. These figures are of soldiers, cockerels, rabbits, pigs, lions, and even seated human figures.

Soldados (Portuguese for soldiers) Saluting at the entrance of a house in Goa

They symbolize the identity of the homeowners, offering a glimpse into who resides beneath the roof without directly knowing them. For instance, lion motifs, mostly seen on the entrance gateways represent strength and signify a connection to the Kadamba Dynasty. The lion was the royal emblem of the Kadamba Dynasty which ruled Goa from the 10th to 14th centuries. Roosters, on the other hand, are linked to the rooster of Barcelos, a character symbolizing integrity and truth from a beloved Portuguese folktale, often seen on the roofs of Goan Catholic houses. Landlords' houses often featured animal motifs like lions, with the animal pointing in the direction of the property.

Rooftop Human, Source: Reddit

Lion on Gateways, Source: Soultravelling

Rooftop sentinel, Source: Gomantak Times

Architecturally, these figures contribute to the aesthetics of the rooftop by sitting on the meeting point of multiple roofs, adding to the visual appeal. The figurines on the gateways give a sense of richness to the visitors, like the massive fort gates. Today, these miniature ornaments are not just decorative; they are an integral part of Goa’s culture, reflecting the community’s rich past. They also connect us to the local artists of Goa who craft these terracotta artifacts, including the charming miniatures.

Curiosity often unveils hidden treasures. So, next time you wander through the streets of Goa, pause to admire these rooftop details. Who knows what stories you might uncover?

Life in Goa has a laid-back, luxurious simplicity that is hard to come by in most of our cities today. People who move here are typically looking to leave the rat race behind in pursuit of a slower lifestyle that offers infinite and diverse opportunities to live in harmony with the land, to embrace the local culture, to enjoy the natural abundance as well as savour the bounties brought by changing seasons.

While Goa is a small state, each of its neighbourhoods offer different and unique living experiences. For anyone who is considering moving to Goa or buying a house in Goa, here is a detailed analysis of what one can expect from the neighbourhoods of North Goa.

PANJIM & ITS SURROUNDINGS

Image sourced from The Culture Trip.

PROS:

As the capital city, Panjim is extremely well connected and relatively easier to access. It is a quaint and small town that bridges the old and the new - it offers modern residential amenities while also retaining historic neighbourhoods such as Fountainhas. Panjim, is at its core, a residential area primarily and therefore also has a robust presence of schools around. It is also close to the beach stretches of Miramar, Caranzalem, and Dona Paula.

CONS:

It may not be easy to get a large, spacious house with a backyard in Panjim. The houses available are largely present in apartments and the availability of outdoor space within a plot is hard to come by.

ALDONA, MOIRA & POMBURPA

Image sourced from Tripoto.com

PROS:

Located to the east of the highway, these are quaint villages in North Goa that are positioned at a distance from the beach belt and are therefore saved from Goa’s maddening tourist crowds. The villages offer a quiet lifestyle meant for people who want to coexist with locals and enjoy the real Goa. However, these areas have been gaining popularity over the last ten years as prime locations for countryside vacation homes. These areas typically contain vacation houses built by expats and Indians who live abroad.

CONS:

It is a bit of a trek to the beach from these areas. The closest beaches are about 40-45 minutes away. These areas are also sought after for their pristine and undisturbed natural habitats. Thus, one should expect to entertain the local flora and fauna in their home.

ASSAGAO & SIOLIM

Image sourced from Ghoomophiro.com

PROS:

These were traditionally well-to-do villages that today have some gorgeous and large heritage houses. These villages are closer in proximity to the beach belt and see a lot of local as well as tourist activity. The neighbourhood hosts multiple restaurants and stores of different kinds, so it is charged with buzz, life, and movement throughout the day.

CONS:

Unfortunately, the quintessential quietude of Goa is no longer to be found in these areas. Commercial activity has taken over and most parts of these villages are overbuilt in the name of development.

NERUL, BETHE & REIS MAGOS

Image sourced from Alvira-Ventures

PROS:

These are pictureque villages that are steeped in history. They are also strategically located. Positioned midway between the Candolim beach belt and Panjim, they make the beachside as well as the townside easily accessible.

CONS:

Gentrification has rapidly taken over these areas as well. It may be possible to get a beautiful row house in these areas, however, bigger houses and larger plots will not be easy to come by.

To compare North Goa and South Goa, visit our analysis here.

To know more about building a house in Goa, read our series: Designing a House in Goa