LOTUS CREST This is one of the finest monument, a, gift to the people of Chinchinim It is situated on the cross roads at Sarzora junction, surrounded by idylic mountains that rise and drop from all sides .It is the brain child of by Dr Vilberto, a fusion of British and Indian architecture He modeled it on the design of British Castle , incorporating Indian architecture and motifs to remind him of his roots. The granite rock from the Sarzora mountains, were chiseled into construction blocks and this by itself is unique sourcing of local material never attempted by any one thus far .This task was undertaken by his brother Mr Zeferino , who was also a freedom fighter of repute and a social worker It was a pains taking job, expensive and slow, as the masons were specially sourced from outside the State. The Architect was a foreigner. Every minutest detail was strictly supervised, monitored by him in person by his frequent frequent visits to Goa during the construction. Another specialty of this Goan castle is the concept of cavity walls leaving a small space in between the two walls.. It almost doubles the costs and at least in Chinchinim , no structure incorporates this idea This ensures cooling effect almost dispensing air conditioning to the house Dr Vilberto introduced skilled labour from all over India as he was a perfectionists The windows , doors , and even the main gate is inspired by Indian architecture .This Castled nestled in sylvan surroundings is beautifully laid by gardening experts. Dr left nothing to chance and any imperfection was demolished to rectify his plans One needs to visit the the place and take a tour around the house to really appreciate this magnificent monument of glory and legacy.that reminds of the roots of the family Even the furniture, crockery, tapestry has been imported to match with the decor and enhance the grandeur One is simply awe struck at the site of this magnificent, unique piece of architecture at Chinchinim and nothing can match its glory or even come near to it He had intentions to use it, but circumstances have altered his plans and though complete in every sense and habitable, it is used only for ceremonial family functions so far. According to the family sources , it is going to be museum, open for public and all artifacts,are already in place Whenever that happens it will be real celebration. , promoting Sarzora Village to a new heights of popularity .Sometimes back it was inaugurated by Lord Mayor of Lisbon and the invitations of guests were restricted and limited to select few. Arrangement are afoot to throw it open for public and then it will a place not to be missed by any one especially \Chinchinim citizens and villagers. The cross road junction is dedicated to our Lady of Fatima, statue imported from Portugal and so also the outside frescoes, depicting scenes of history it will not be out of place or exaggeration to stress its uniqueness and beauty to say the least The public square for relaxation is also planned by him. If my memory serves me right, the place for modern bus stop was not made available to him for its construction Dr Vilberto has specialised in economics, but he is a builder , architect, interior decorator etc all rolled into one He founded the prestigious, first scholarships in.memory of his late wife Margarida to complete science degree courses and which are now operating under P.C.Trust.He has since added amother Scholarship in Science after himself for first student at all Goa level ,besides awards for the first and second student from Assumpta School at Sarzora in honour of his wife too. Coming from humble beginnings, he made it big in Lisbon with his hard work, pursuit in excellence in Education He has established commercial and flourishing business ventures too He has a son, who is looking after his continued business interests .Of late and because of illhealth his visits to Goa have been kept on hold Dr Vilberto in his own indomitable style leaves a landmark magnificent Castle like Indian structure as a memory and legacy at Sarzora, Chinchinim , origin of his birth place The structure finds a worthy mention in the prestigious journal of Ancestral Homes He passed away at 91 two after his birthdayHis promotion of excellence in Education and outstanding structure will serve as a monument of everlasting memory Nelson Lopes Chinchinim
Nelson Lopes Chinchinim https://lopesnelsonnat.wordpress.com Nelson Lopes Chinchinim https://lopesnelsonnat.wordpress.com