Raj Bhavan is a residential palace - the official residence of the Hon’ble Governor of Goa.
There are several residential suites and landmarks described below. These landmarks are not open to the general public. The Hon'ble Governor opened the doors of Raj Bhavan for the general public, w.e.f 5th Jan 2019 and help generate revenue to the Government.
Location: Dona Paula, Goa | located on a cape in the Goan capital, Panjim, known by the name "Palacio do Cabo"
Cabo Raj Niwas (Raj Bhavan)
Cabo fort was erected by the Portuguese in 1540 to guard the entrance to Goa harbor. Although, currently nothing remains of the old citadel, one can see the ruins of the small military cemetery built by the British built during the Napoleonic wars. This later became Cabo Palace, or "Palacio do Cabo"
CANON POINT
Just 3 minutes' drive from the Raj Bhavan through the forests, 'Cannon Point' is a spot where two old cannons located and lifted from the shore waters, are placed on pedestals. The scenic sport has a suitable small park, pathways and lighting. Get a beautiful view of the sunset and the Arabian sea.
OUR LADY OF THE CAPE CHURCH
This small yet exquisite chapel was probably erected in the early 17th century. The main altar is of wood, having vibrant carvings and is painted in white and gold.
GROTTO
A short distance from the chapel, down to a grotto, there is an altar dedicated to Santa Paula (who lived from 347 to 404 AD), with her image in a recumbent position.
A legend says that the figure was washed ashore. The villagers would throw it back into the sea but it kept coming back. The villagers then placed the figure in the grotto. It is believed that anyone who prays to Santa Paula and lights a candle, has their wish fulfilled.
The Feast of the Grotto is celebrated on 2nd August (evening), attended by a large number of people living in the Raj Bhavan campus and the nearby villages.
THE ESTATE
The Raj Bhavan Estate, has an area of about 80 acres. On the sea-shore, the masonry walls have withstood the onslaught of time for over 4 Centuries. Buildings, gardens, lawns occupy about 5 hectares of the flat table land. The remaining is full of vegetation, where new species of trees are added annually. Seasonal Vegetables are grown in a Kitchen-garden.