A typical farmer’s house, a fisherman’s shack, the tinto or local market square and the taverner capture the ineffable essence of a Goan village.
Amidst this timeless scenario, one can see the ancient processes of liquor distillation and irrigation, and traditional artisans plying their trade.
No, this is not a real village, but it aims to be authentic, alright. Ancestral Goa showcases the former Portuguese colony as it was, a hundred years ago, states a brochure.
Located 9 km from the commercial city of Margao on a verdant hillside in Loutulim, the center offers a glimpse into the past. The brainchild of artist / sculptor Maendra Jocelino Araujo Alvares, Ancestral Goa also hosts cultural evenings of authentic Goan song and dance, according to the brochure.
Ancestral Goa flowers amidst lush greenery, typical of this tiny state. Visitors can take a guided trek through the village which winds over terraced plains, through landscaped gardens and into the great outdoors. A spice garden exudes fragrant aromas and a fruit orchard perfumes the air. Fluttering butterflies, buzzing bees and rare insects are a part of the circle of life here.
Natural Harmony is the high point of this attraction. The monolythic sculpture of Sant Mirabai playing the ektara was sculpted single-handedly by Alvares in one month.
It is the longest laterite Model of a local basket weaver at work sculpture in India measuring 14x5m and has reportedly been mentioned in the Limca Book of Records.
To round off the experience, stop by The Big Foot Eat-out which offers traditional and exotic culinary delights. The spices, vegetables and fruits are handpicked from the center’s kitchen garden and fruit orchard. The Big Foot is also a versatile venue used for children’s camps, artists’ meets, seminars, dances, weddings, et al.