Houses of Goa

the long version

Built in the 18th and 19th centuries, when Portuguese power was at a decline in the East, the Houses of Goa best illustrate the Goan quest for its own ethhnic identity. Researched over five and half years this book has been written out in six chapters. It begins with the pre Portuguese cultural history of Goa and then catapults you into the homes covering the plans & stylistic details but never losing the social and cultural context of its dwellers. It also covers the building of the traditional goan house including the rituals involved. It ends with a chapter entitled personality profiles which endearingly covers eight particular families, their history, stories and homes.