On top of the itinerary of a week long visit to Goa was to discover as much of its cultural and biodiversity heritage as seven days would allow. ​We set out  to explore the old mansions of the sea side state on a warm, Goan day. Our first stop  was The Figueiredo Mansion in the discreet village of Loutolim. The mansion was designed in 1590  by Jesuit priests  for the Podiar family, converts to the Christian  faith who then took the name ​Figueiredo. So at ease is the mansion with the surrounding rural landscape, that it  surprised us to be confronted by its sumptuously decorated  interiors. The Italian tiles, exquisite porcelain, Belgian chandeliers and room after room of intricately carved furniture gently transported us into another period. We spent more time than we planned at The Figueiredo Mansion  absorbing as many decorative details as possible, a few pictures  of which are here and on Instagram. If you’re in Goa and considering staying  or having a meal at a treasured cultural asset, this may be it!