Cruz de Milagres

The architectural look of the place was preserved and further enhanced to reflect the historical background of this place. The new block was strategically located so as to not disturb the basic character of the old layout but to establish a continuity in the entire project. 

When we restore a structure, we have to assess the usable potential of the old structure in terms of its structural strength and the use that it is going to be put to. In a new structure, one can use all the modern methods of design and technology.

In the restoration work, Ar. Tulio De Souza primarily used laterite stones which were available as part of the ruins and additional stones which were procured. These were laid in mud mortar and plastering was done in a lime and mud mixture which was suitably ground and mixed so that the exterior look reflected the old style. No cement was used in the whole restoration part. However, the new building was done in a normal RCC frame but the architectural look was controlled to match the existing building.

In the cloister adjacent to the shrine the landscape was laid in a manner that a motif of a Greek Cross was replicated on the ground. This motif is seen in the relief of the vaulted false ceiling in the shrine.

Certain green building technologies were utilized like tapping solar energy to generate steam and hot water and sewage disposal by means of absorption through a reed bed.

We are grateful to Archbishop Filipe Neri Ferrao for having led this unique project, Fr. Victor Rodrigues who initiated the project under the guidance of the Archbishop and to Fr. Valerian Vaz who was of immense help in the course of the work and became an integral part of the team.