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Tip toe through the corridors of history…at the Palácio do Deão in Goa

A Portuguese nobleman, an Archbishop, a few Viceroys – what do they have in common? Find out for yourself by following the sound of the whispers of the past as you enter the hallowed portals of the Palácio do Deão in Quepem, Goa. Allow yourself to be submerged in tales of philanthropy, ancient culture and the grandeur of a bygone era. Listen to what the whispers say…

On the 3rd of October, 1779, 19 year old Jose Paulo arrived on the shores of Goa as a member of Archbishop Dom Frei Manuel de Santa Catarina’s entourage. 27 days later he was appointed Secretario – Escrivao da Camara Pontificia for the Archdiocese. And he continued to rise to dramatic heights in Goa which became his home till he passed away 55 years later.

It is whispered that Jose Paulo founded the hamlet of Quepem. It is also whispered that he founded the St. Cruz Church. And he built a palatial house that he called a ‘Farm House’ – subsequently, it was realistically renamed the Palácio do Deão. Which he eventually presented to the Viceroys of India-Portuguese to ensure the safety of his legacy.

The Palácio do Deão is 11, 000 square feet of breathtaking architecture, located just 14 km from Margao, and overlooking the banks of the spectacular Kushavati river. Let the whispers of the past guide you as you wind your way through the magnificent tropical gardens, calm ponds, charming loggia, stone sculptures and balustrades, a waterfall, a river, and a belvedere that serves the finest in Indo-Portuguese cuisine.

The house is a delightful amalgam of Portuguese and Hindu architectural influences that help you relive the past. Let yourself relax with a book in the library; a board game in the games room; or chat with your hosts, Ruben and Celia Vasco da Gama, who have worked relentlessly to restore the Palácio do Deão.

And when you are sated, take a little bit of history back with you from Goa…