Palacio do deao, Quepem

‘When Portuguese nobleman Jose Paulo Deao dropped anchor in Goa in 1779, he chose to leave an imposing palatial legacy in a town he was credited with founding.’

When Portuguese nobleman Jose Paulo Deao dropped anchor in Goa in 1779, he chose to leave an imposing palatial legacy in a town he was credited with founding. Dean of the church and founder of Quepem town, he constructed an imposing mansion (11,000 sq ft) on the banks of the River Khushavati. Situated on a hillock, it faces the church he built. A striking feature of this palatial mansion which took seven years to complete after the commencement of
its construction in 1780 is its unique blend of Hindu and Portuguese architecture.

Another outstanding aspect is the complex garden, unparalleled in Goa. Replete with loggia, balustrades, vases, stone ornaments and a belvedere, it’s a nostalgic trip to the Portuguese era. Deao apparently spent 55 years in
Goa and in 1829 presented the Palácio do Deão to the Viceroys of India-Portugal.

Restored by Ruben and Celia Vasco da Gama in 2002, the couple threw open the house to visitors. “The USP of
the place is its heritage. Our main aim is to preserve this mansion for future generations to learn of their past,” says da Gama who lives in one section of the house. Its rich history, unique architecture, art and artifacts, including a gallery displaying traditional Goan costumes served up with traditional Goan cuisine and a sound and light show indeed open a door to the lifestyle and culture of Goa’s rich past.

Open throughout the year (except Wednesdays) by appointment