The European colonialism has its roots in Goa with the establishment of a Portuguese colony in the 16th century. Among the time-honored vestiges of the by-gone Portuguese era, the Viceroy Gate is of particular interest. It was the gateway to the new era of colonialism in India and followed by British Imperialism.

The Viceroy’s arch in Old Goa was erected in the memory of Vasco Da Gama in 1599, by his great-grandson Francisco da Gama after he became the viceroy in 1597. He was stayed as the viceroy of India throughout the period of 1597 to 1600 and 1622 to 1628.

Vasco Da Gama was the first European to reach India by sea. His initial voyage to India (1497–1499) was the first to link Europe and Asia by an ocean route, connecting the Atlantic and the Indian oceans and therefore, the West and the East.

On top of the arch, there is a little statue of Vasco da Gama, completely attired with full regalia, gazing at the Mandovi River.

One of the features of the arch is the inscription that reads “Hec est Victoria Quae Vincit Mundum, Fides Nostra” which translates to “This is the victory that conquers the world, our faith”. This inscription reflects the strong religious beliefs of the Portuguese and their desire to spread Christianity in India.

On the side facing the city is a sculpture of a European lady. She is wearing a crown and long decorated robe.  She holds a sword in one hand and an open book in another, gazing sternly ahead. Under her feet is a reclining figure of a man in equally decorated and flowing robe, slippers, and turban, this confirms he is of high rank. The head of this man is propped up by an elbow with a resigned expression on his face. No prizes for guessing the message here, as the Inquisition made its way liberally across the city.

There was ceremonial importance attached to this structure during the Portuguese rule. Every governor who took charge of Goa had to pass through the arch. The archway was the spot where the new viceroy would be handed over the keys to the city of Old Goa the capital of Goa at that time. The structure lost its ceremonial importance when the capital of Goa was moved from Old Goa to Panjim in 1843.

The palace was used by Portuguese Viceroys for a brief stay, rest and relaxation during their travel to and from Portugal. Further, it was a tradition for the new Viceroy to stay here while awaiting the receipt of the ceremonial keys to the city of Old Goa at the Viceroy´s Arch. Likewise, the outgoing Viceroy had to wait here, for a ship bound for Portugal, after delegating his authority in Old Goa.

Viceroy’s Arch results from the first memorial of the nautical achievement by famous Vasco da Gama. However, surprisingly, the monument was not entitled according to his name.