The
Cabo Raj Niwas, or Cabo Palace Fort became
one of the most important Goan forts because
of its prominent position overlooking both
the Mandovi and Zuari rivers.
Its historical
importance, incredible panoramic views and
the fact that it is the official residence
of the governor of Goa make the Cabo Palace
Fort one of the most prominent of Goan forts
on any Goa forts tour.
The fort was originally
built in around 1540 opposite the site of
Fort Aguada, and although the exact date
it was completed is not known for certain
historical documents and, therefore, a relatively
accurate timeline can be given.
It is widely
accepted that the Cabo Palace Fort was
constructed in 1540 and included a monastery
to
“Our Virgin Lady Of The Cape” at
the very end of the site. This also acted as
an invaluable landmark to sailors and seafarers
of the time. In 1594, the then viceroy took on the mantle
of reviving, renovating and adding to the existing
monastery and paying out of his own pocket he
paid for the existing chapel to be completely
repaired and also paid for the construction of
a monastery next to the existing site. |
