Menezes Braganca House — Attraction in Goa

Menezes Braganca House in Goa, located on Guddi - Chandor Rd, Culsabhatt, Chandor, is a truly remarkable and historically significant heritage house. Known as the most prestigious and aristocratic house in Goa, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The house is the ancestral home of the late Francisco Xavier de Bragança, who was the maternal grandfather of one of Goa's most illustrious sons, the late Luis Menezes de Bragança.

Luis Menezes de Bragança, born on January 15th, 1878, and passed away on July 10th, 1938, was not only a prominent Indian journalist and writer but also a passionate anti-colonial activist. The house was named after the reigning Portuguese monarch, King Luis I, in 1878. Luis Menezes de Bragança made the courageous decision to sacrifice his family's wealth and fame to fight for Goa's freedom from colonial rule.

Stepping into Menezes Braganca House is like entering a time capsule that encapsulates the rich history and heritage of Goa. The architecture of the house is awe-inspiring, showcasing a fusion of Portuguese and Indian design elements. From the moment you set foot on the property, you can't help but be captivated by the grandeur and elegance that emanate from every corner.

The house is filled with priceless artifacts, antique furniture, and intricate artwork, all of which provide glimpses into the opulent lifestyle of the past. The attention to detail in preserving the authenticity of the house is commendable, as every room tells a story of its own.

Visiting Menezes Braganca House is not only an opportunity to witness the grandeur of a bygone era but also a chance to pay homage to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for Goa's freedom. The knowledgeable guides at the house are passionate about sharing the history and significance of the place, visiting an enriching and educational experience.

Surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful surroundings, the house offers a serene and tranquil environment that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the past. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Menezes Braganca House is a must-visit destination in Goa.

In conclusion, Menezes Braganca House stands as a living testament to the courage and resilience of the Goan people. It is a place where history comes alive, and the spirit of freedom and heritage is celebrated. A visit to this prestigious and aristocratic heritage house will leave you with a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made and the rich cultural...

🏰 The Braganza Houses – Two Families, One Fascinating Legacy 🇮🇳

In the heart of Chandor, far from Goa’s usual tourist trails, lies one of the most captivating heritage homes we’ve ever visited—the Braganza Houses. Built over 350 years ago, this grand Indo-Portuguese mansion is unlike any other. What makes it truly unique is that it’s one estate divided into two, home to the Menezes Braganza and Pereira Braganza families—once close relatives, now estranged. Despite their differences, both wings still share the same grand entrance, making for a story as fascinating as the treasures inside.

Two Houses, Two Worlds

Entering the Menezes Braganza House, we were met with pure European-influenced grandeur. Think soaring ceilings, Venetian chandeliers, enormous Belgian mirrors, Ming vases, and an awe-inspiring private library filled with centuries-old books. This side of the mansion feels like a slice of aristocratic history, where every room tells a tale of Goa’s colonial elite.

Crossing into the Pereira Braganza House, the contrast was immediate. Here, the atmosphere is more intimate, more rooted in Goan-Portuguese tradition. Intricately hand-carved furniture, sacred relics, and a cherished display of priestly robes gifted by the Vatican give it a deep spiritual presence. It feels personal and warm, a reflection of the family’s enduring connection to their heritage.

Two Hosts, One Warm Welcome

Our experience was made unforgettable by the wonderful custodians of each house. Yvonne Menezes Braganza, the sixth-generation guardian, welcomed us with stories of her family’s past, guiding us through a world of palanquins, antique silverware, and regal portraits. Meanwhile, in the Pereira Braganza wing, Sharmila Pereira Braganza, the next-generation host, brought a modern touch to the house’s history, sharing tales of faith, tradition, and the realities of preserving such an estate.

A Must-Visit in Goa

To step into the Braganza Houses is to step back in time—into an era of colonial splendor, family legacies, and fascinating contrasts. We loved both sides equally, each offering a different glimpse into Goa’s past. If you’re in Goa, don’t miss the chance to visit—you won’t find another place...

Braganza House is a 17th-century grand Portuguese mansion that stretches along an entire side of the village square in Chandor, South Goa. It is a popular tourist attraction as it is a one-of-its-kind mansion that is open to the public. This land was granted to the Braganza family by a Portuguese king, who built a glorious mansion that later was inherited by the sisters of the family. A guided tour is given to all the tourists either by a family member or a representative. The Braganza Mansion spreads over an area of almost 10,000 square meters and is a grand sight to behold. It houses stunning antique handcrafted teak and rosewood furniture, draperies, and paintings. The ceilings are hand-painted and a splendid library with a collection of over 5000 books is located in the west wing of the mansion. It is believed that some of the artifacts in the mansion were presented to the family by Dom Luis, who was the king of Portugal during the 19th century. The coat of arms of the last Royal Family of the Portuguese, which was a title bestowed upon the family by the king, is also visible in the ballroom of the house. Located around 10 km from east of Margao, the nearest railhead to the Braganza House Goa is Margao Junction. From Margao one requires to take Abade Faria Road and from there head to Swami Chinmayananda Road right upto Chandor. From here, the Braganza House is clearly visible. A treat for the lovers of history and architecture, the museum in the west wing is filled with opulent Belgian glass chandeliers, antique treasures from Portugal, China, Europe and Macau; floors made out of Italian Marble and an extensive library of Dr Luis de Menezes Braganca, a noted journalist during the Independence Movement of Goa. This library has a collection of over 5000 books and is believed to be the grandest of its kind in Goa. The East Wing belongs to the family of Pereira- Braganza; it is well maintained though not grand as the west wing. Here, one can witness antiques from all over the world and a ballroom with a large marble floor. The eye-catcher is the quaint family chapel that has preserved a fingernail of St. Francis Xavier carefully...