A Journey Through Time: Chandor’s Stately Mansions

The moment I set foot in Chandor, I felt the pulse of history beneath my feet. This quaint village, once a bustling trade center known as Chandrapura, now stands as a testament to the grandeur of Goa’s past. My guide for the day was Venita, a vibrant storyteller whose energy was as infectious as her knowledge was profound. We met at the St. Tiago Chapel, a serene spot that seemed to echo with the whispers of bygone eras. Venita’s enthusiasm was palpable as she began weaving tales of Chandor’s illustrious past, painting vivid pictures of a time when the village was a hub of commerce and culture.

Our first stop was the Fernandez home, a short stroll from the chapel. As we approached, the stately mansion loomed large, its walls steeped in stories of the Portuguese era. A fifth-generation family member welcomed us, guiding us through secret passageways and grand ballrooms, each room a treasure trove of antique furniture and porcelain. It was fascinating to see how the past and present coexisted, with school textbooks nestled among the relics of history. The experience was like stepping into a living museum, where every corner held a piece of the past waiting to be discovered.

Discovering Hidden Gems: Chandor’s Architectural Marvels

After a brief car ride, we arrived at the Braganza home, a magnificent structure that stood out in its grandeur. The mansion, built in the 17th century, was a testament to the wealth and influence of its owners. As we walked towards it, the architectural features captivated my urban planner’s eye, each detail telling a story of its own. Inside, we were led up a grand staircase to the west wing, known as the Braganza-Pereira home. The mansion, now split into two, houses 15 family members and boasts a collection of fine furniture and artifacts, including a pair of high-backed chairs gifted by the royal family of Portugal.

The family chapel was a highlight, housing a fingernail of St. Francis Xavier, a unique honor that spoke volumes of the family’s historical significance. As I explored the mansion, I couldn’t help but marvel at how these stately homes have preserved their grandeur through the centuries, offering a glimpse into a world where opulence and influence reigned supreme. It was a reminder of the rich tapestry of history that Chandor holds within its embrace, waiting to be unraveled by those willing to delve deeper.

A Scenic Farewell: Chandor’s Enchanting Views

In between our visits to these grand homes, Venita took us to other intriguing historical and archaeological sites. We marveled at a magnificent Nandi bull in an excavated Shiva temple complex and explored the ruins of an old fort wall along the banks of the Kushavati river. Each site added another layer to the rich historical narrative of Chandor, offering insights into the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the region over the centuries.

Our final stop was the isolated Three Kings Chapel, perched atop a little hillock. From this vantage point, we were treated to a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the town, a fitting end to our journey through time. As we bid farewell to Venita, her cheerful wave and the sight of her scooter disappearing into the distance left me with a sense of nostalgia and a newfound appreciation for the hidden gems of Chandor. This vibrant village, with its stately mansions and rich history, had captured my heart, leaving me eager to explore more of Goa’s enchanting landscapes.