Raj Bhavan (Goa)

Raj Bhavan is a residential palace and fort situated in Dona Paula, Goa which serves as the official residence of the Governor of Goa. The sprawling 80 acres estate is located on a cape in the Goan capital, Panjim. Known by the name "Palacio do Cabo" until it gained official status as the residence of the governor of Goa, this palace is said to be built between the 16th and 17th century in the erstwhile Portuguese India. The fort is strategically positioned facing the Arabian sea opposite the well-preserved 17th century Forte Aguada.HistoryIn 1540, the eighth Governor of Portuguese India, Estêvão de Gama, proposed the idea of constructing some fortifications to guard the entrance to the Goa harbor. As per their long-established defense strategy they quickly built a church and fort and subsequently attached a convent. The Cabo (Portuguese for cape) was converted into one of the best equipped and important fortresses over the years, although these days nothing remains of the old citadel that served as the Franciscan Convent. Since the canons were not often used, the buildings at some point of time were also used as temporary accommodation for the archbishop. Over course of time it became the official residence of the Portuguese Governor of Goa.