Viceroys Arch, Goa, Goa Travel Guide

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Explore Goa's history at the majestic Viceroy's Arch, a symbolic gateway showcasing Portuguese colonial influence and architectural grandeur.

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Viceroys Arch, Goa

The Viceroy's Arch, located in Old Goa, is a historical monument built in 1599 by Viceroy Francisco da Gama, the great-grandson of Vasco da Gama. It once served as a ceremonial entrance for Portuguese viceroys arriving in the capital. The arch stands as a reminder of Goa's colonial history and the Portuguese influence on the region.

A brief summary to Viceroys Arch, Goa

Old Goa, Goa, IN

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Viceroys Arch, Goa.

Visit during the cooler months (November to February) for pleasant weather.
Combine your visit with nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.
Be respectful of the historical site; avoid littering.
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.

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Explore Viceroys Arch, Goa on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Viceroys Arch, Goa, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Church of St. Cajetan, head northwards. The archway is about a 5-minute walk through historical sites. No cost.
Public Transport

From Panaji, take a local bus towards Old Goa. Get off near the Church of St. Cajetan, which is close to Viceroy's Arch. Bus fare is approximately ₹20-₹50.
Taxi/Auto Rickshaw

From Panaji, hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Old Goa. Ask to be dropped off near the Church of St. Cajetan. Viceroy's Arch is a short walk from there. Taxi fares range from ₹150-₹250, while auto-rickshaws cost around ₹100-₹200.

Discover more about Viceroys Arch, Goa

Viceroy's Arch, also known as the Arch of the Viceroys, is a significant landmark in Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Constructed in 1599 by Francisco da Gama, then Viceroy of Goa and great-grandson of the famed explorer Vasco da Gama, the arch commemorated Vasco da Gama's arrival in India in 1498 and served as a ceremonial gateway. It welcomed newly appointed viceroys to the Portuguese capital of India.The arch is built from laterite stone, a material commonly used in Goan architecture. The structure exhibits a European architectural style with Portuguese influences, featuring a carved archway supported by columns. The riverside of the arch features a statue of Vasco da Gama. The arch also displays the royal coat of arms and emblems of Portuguese kings.Historically, the arch was part of a larger complex that included the Adil Shah Palace. The arch was a key point in ceremonial processions, where newly appointed viceroys would receive the symbolic keys to the city. The capital of Goa was moved to Panjim (now Panaji) in 1843, diminishing the arch's ceremonial importance. The arch collapsed in 1948 due to the monsoon season and was rebuilt in 1954. Today, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) maintains the arch as a Monument of National Importance.Visiting the Viceroy's Arch offers a glimpse into Goa's colonial past. Nearby attractions include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi.