Rua de Natal, a Goan street that espouses the spirit of Christmas

Venita Gomes

CHRISTMASY STREET

Today, let's explore a street (named Rua de Natal in Portuguese) that holds a special place in the hearts of Panjimites. Let us glimpse through its historical and social significance.

Rua de Natal |Christmas in Goa| Christmas street|Fontainhas | Latin Quarters | Photo: Venita Gomes

WHAT IT MEANS?

It was constructed in the 1880s. According to Vasco Pinho, author of Indo-Portuguese history series books, Rua de Natal was officially opened to the public on Christmas Day in 1885 and hence the name.

Rua de Natal |Christmas in Goa| Christmas street|Fontainhas | Latin Quarters | Photo: Venita Gomes

MAJOR PROJECT

This street was part of a major project for Fontainhas, which also included the sinking of a large well and the construction of stairway which consists of 170 steps leading to the Altinho hill.

Rua de Natal |Christmas in Goa| Christmas street|Fontainhas | Latin Quarters | Photo: Venita Gomes

THANKS TO!

Fontainhas ward underwent a significant facelift, led by Jose Maria Teixeira Guimaraes, the then member of the governing council (1886).

Rua de Natal |Christmas in Goa| Christmas street|Fontainhas | Latin Quarters | Photo: Venita Gomes

LOCATION

Today, the street runs from North to South, starting from the main Chapel of St Sebastian in this famous Latin Quarter of the capital city.

Rua de Natal |Christmas in Goa| Christmas street|Fontainhas | Latin Quarters | Photo: Venita Gomes

WELL IT IS!

Rua de Natal features a well, now a major attraction for tourists. Alongside it, vibrant steps lead to Altinho hill and the Chapel of Our Lady of Nativity, evoking the spirit of Christmas.

Rua de Natal |Christmas in Goa| Christmas street|Fontainhas | Latin Quarters | Photo: Venita Gomes

CAFE MEU LAR BY BARISTA

Today, this street has this quaint cafe which goes by the name 'Cafe Meu Lar' which is a modern European-styled cafe that serves handcrafted pastas and pizza.

Rua de Natal |Christmas in Goa| Christmas street|Fontainhas | Latin Quarters | Photo: Venita Gomes

ANOTHER CUTE CAFE

On Rua de Natal, you'll find another charming place, known as Casa Cafe set in Indo-Portuguese style. Here, one can indulge in ice creams and other sweet offerings.

Rua de Natal |Christmas in Goa| Christmas street|Fontainhas | Latin Quarters | Photo: Venita Gomes

PRETTY HOMES

This street is adorned with numerous charming Indo-Portuguese houses, which are a photographer's delight. However, it's important to note that not all houses can be photographed.

Rua de Natal |Christmas in Goa| Christmas street|Fontainhas | Latin Quarters | Photo: Venita Gomes

NEXT: Read this if you love Goa's 'bebinca', the 'Queen of desserts'

SEE MORE