Architecture

The architecture of Goa is a combination of Indian, Islamic and Portuguese styles. Since the Portuguese ruled for four centuries, many churches and houses bear a striking element of the Portuguese style of architecture. Goan Hindu houses do not show any Portuguese influence, though the modern temple architecture is a spectacular amalgam of original Goan temple style with Dravidian, Hemadpanthi, Islamic,and Portuguese architecture. The original Goan temple architecture fell into disuse as the temples were demolished by the Portuguese and the Sthapati known as Thavayi in Konkani were converted to Christianity though the wooden work and theKavi murals can still be seen.  (see:Goa:Hindu temples and deities by Rui Gomes Periera).