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Goa is home to some of the most beautiful homes in the country. Such is the splendour of the ‘Goan villa’, that it has become one of the most prized possessions for the rich and famous in the country and outside it.But in this region with homes of abundant beauty, there are still a few residences which stand out even more than the rest. One of them surely is the 250-year-old Casa Araujo Alvares, whose magnificent doors even carry the crest of the family. The grand house even has its own chapel where the inmates of the home kneel down before the almighty. The chapel itself is a treasure trove of its own, which includes ivory figurines, an enchanting marble statue of Madonna and exquisitely carved wooden panels. One of the other highlights of the house is an image of St. Anthony which was ferried from Africa and whose miraculous powers have blessed the family inhabiting the house.Incidentally, the reason why the Alvares brothers threw the doors of their house open to members of the public, especially tourists, is because high costs of maintenance and repairs which are required to keep these centuries old structures up and fighting fit.So if you want to do your bit to keep Goa’s culture and heritage alive, make sure you do patronise places which are great repositories of age-old elegance, along with popular beaches and nightclubs. Remember a good deed comes right around. Casa Araujo Alvares, LoutolimOpen all daysFrom 9 am to 1pmand 2pm to 5:30 pmContact: +918322750430
