Azulejos, the striking blue-and-white tiles you often spot on Goan heritage homes, centuries-old churches, nameplates, and street corners are one of the most beautiful reminders of Goa’s Indo-Portuguese past. Their journey began in Portugal, where Moorish design and European craftsmanship came together to create this unique art form. When the Portuguese arrived in Goa, Azulejos travelled with them and slowly began finding a place in Goan households and public spaces. Over generations, Goa embraced these tiles in its own warm, creative way.

Today, they are woven into everyday life, a familiar aesthetic that carries stories of faith, folklore, family names, and the quiet charm of old Goa. At the Centre for Indo-Portuguese Arts (CIPA) in Panjim, this artistic legacy continues to thrive. Stepping inside the gallery feels like entering a world where every tile tells a story of old markets, everyday Goan scenes, Portuguese legends, floral patterns, and intricate motifs. Orlando, who leads the workshop, has dedicated years to preserving and nurturing this craft. As he shares the origins, evolution, and meaning behind Azulejos, you begin to see how deeply this art is tied to Goa’s cultural identity. The session slowly transitions from storytelling to hands-on creation, giving you the chance to paint your own tile — a piece of heritage shaped by your imagination and the traditions that have inspired Goa for centuries.