VASCO: It was a “treat” for the heritage lovers at the unique ‘Walk of the Pearl’ heritage walkathon organised at St Jacinto Island on Sunday.
Walkathon witnessed the participation of over 38 heritage lovers, who visited the heritage sites of the island, including St Jacinto Church, underground fresh water spring, chapel of St. Domingo on the mount, the secret underground tunnel, 120-year-old lighthouse and cemetery.
Guest resource person Fr Michael A Fernandes guided the heritage lovers with live commentary on the various heritage and historical events that the island has witnessed in the past.
The highlight of the event was the display of the island map, which showed the divisions and the ownership of the island amongst its various residents who belong to the fishing community.
At an interaction with the local fishermen, the various fishing practices were discussed. Antonio Furtado, a traditional fisherman shared his practical knowledge of the Chicalim Bay and its marine biodiversity fishing seasons and the difficulties faced during “lean” fishing seasons.
The event was organized by Cyril A Fernandes, chairperson of the Chicalim Biodiversity Heritage Site Committee and supported by Chicalim villagers Dulcina Dias, Alka Damle, Filomena Monteiro and Kaveena C Fernandes.
Though most participants were from Chicalim, the event attracted heritage lovers from Vasco and Panjim. The participants were given a brochure with more information on each site that they visited along with a certificate of participation.
Fernandes promised to make it a regular event for the benefit of the heritage lovers of Goa, India and abroad. The Chicalim locals offered to help in organising this heritage walk for the benefit of Goans and other tourists interested in visiting St Jacinto Island and explore its wonderful sites.
