Once upon a time, a grand palace stood as part of the Bijapur Kingdom, ruled by Yusuf Adil Shah. In 1510, the Portuguese colonial forces defeated Adil Shah’s army and took control of the land. They transformed the palace into a residence for their Governors until 1695, later using it for festive occasions.
A tradition began where the new Viceroy would stay at this palace. He would wait to receive ceremonial keys to the city of Old Goa from the departing Viceroy. The outgoing Viceroy also stayed here, awaiting his ship back to Portugal.
The Portuguese called the Adil Shah palace “Idalcaon Palace.” During the 17th century, an epidemic forced the palace to be abandoned. In 1820, the Portuguese Government ordered its demolition. The materials were transported to Panjim, where they were used to build houses.
Today, only the gateway remains of this once grand palace. It stands on a raised platform, supported by artistic basalt pillars with a lintel on top. The gateway, surrounded by trees, is approached via a stone pathway. It feels like a magical portal, as if stepping through it might transport you to another world. Perhaps, if you pass through it, you might find yourself in a distant castle on the other side of the planet!
