over four hundred years ago. Architecture and antiques The palace is a double-storey structure of great dimensions and architectural significance. While the ground level consists of the office chamber and residence of the Governor in addition to few guest suites. The upper level holds halls for gatherings (Durbar hall), conferences and banquets along with the main Kitchen and additional guest suites or rooms. A row of varandas (Verandahs) elevated on pillars on the rear side of the mansion overlook the Mandovi river to the right, the Zuari river to the left, and the Arabian sea ahead. Bohemian chandeliers, Chinese porcelain, silver and wooden furniture form the assets of this palace. The pieces of antique Chinese porcelain are said to be presumably manufactured in Canton. A worn-out set of crockery having a similar design with Portuguese coat of arms were specially ordered for the use of the Portuguese Governor General. An excellent collection of high quality solid wooden furniture with exquisite workmanship adorn some of the spaces in this palatial mansion. A set of intricately carved chairs with figurines of Hindu Gods and Temples indicate the complete harmony between Christians and Hindus that existed in Goa. Five tall Cantonese vases believed to be over 300 years old as well as two large-sized Cantonese bowls, all of which hold the Portuguese coat of arms are among the prized antique items at the palace. So are two wooden Ormolu mounted chests with veneer wood inlay and carara marble tops. On the walls of the Durbar Hall are large mirrors and a painting of a Fisherman by Francisco Jose Rezende (1866). Carved furniture of ingenious and rare workmanship form part of the collections of the palace - the quality of which has not diminished even after use for centuries, owing to the up-keep. Renovation During the years 1999 and 2000, the palace underwent a major renovation. In order to strengthen the structure as per expert advice, old wooden beams that held the upper level were replaced with steel beams. The beams are said to have been decayed over the years. The process was carried out in phases to allow for careful alterations and avoid any damages to the historically significant structure. In areas behind the palace facing the Arabian sea, considerable distress had been faced over the last few years in turn calling for major remedial steps to protect and preserve this historical building.