Fontainhas Latin Quarter

Fontainhas is the historic Latin Quarter of Panaji, set between the Ourem Creek and the slopes of Altinho hill. It developed in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, and its name comes from the Fonte Phoenix, a spring at the foot of the hill. The quarter is known for its narrow lanes and colourful old houses painted in yellow, blue, green and ochre, with red tiled roofs, balconies and decorative windows. Many homes still carry the Portuguese tradition of painted house nameplates and azulejo tiles. The Chapel of St Sebastian, at the heart of the area, holds a large crucifix that was formerly in the Palace of the Inquisition in Old Goa. Visitors explore on foot, browsing art galleries, small cafes and heritage guesthouses. The area hosts cultural events and an annual arts festival. It is worth the trip as the best place in Goa to experience old Indo-Portuguese urban life.