Miramar is a Spanish and Portuguese term derived from mirar (to look at) and mar (sea). It is commonly used for places—such as beaches or neighborhoods—that offer beautiful ocean views. The name literally means view of the sea.
The famous places called Miramar
The name Miramar is shared by several scenic coastal destinations worldwide. Hotel Miramar in Balneário Camboriú, Brazil, was built in 1934 as one of the city’s earliest coastal hotels, located near Avenida Central and the popular beachfront attractions. Miramar is also the name of a charming city in Argentina, renowned for its stunning beaches and laid-back seaside atmosphere. In the United States, a picturesque stretch of shoreline in Half Moon Bay, California, is called Miramar Beach, attracting visitors with its sweeping ocean views. Similarly, Miramar, Florida, situated in southern Broward County, is a thriving city with a population of about 134,721, noted for its cultural diversity and rapid urban growth.
From fort to Praia de Gaspar Dias
The history of Miramar traces to the late 16th century, marked by the presence of a small fort (fortress of Gaspar Dias), constructed in 1598 during the governorship of Viceroy Dom Francisco de Gama, Count of Vidigueira, the great-grandson of the legendary explorer Vasco da Gama. Upon its completion, the fort was named Forte da Ponte de Gaspar Dias and served as a coastal defense structure guarding the entrance to the Mandovi estuary and nearby settlements from enemy invasions and pirate attacks.
Over the centuries, however, the fort fell into neglect and gradually crumbled into ruins, with the ravages of time and the sea eroding its once-formidable walls. Today, a solitary cannon remains inside the rotunda/circle, silently recalling Goa’s Portuguese past and colonial heritage.
The original name of the Miramar beach was ‘Piddooc’, meaning black beads worn by ladies. It was later renamed ‘Praia de Gaspar Dias’, after the owner of the land Mr Gaspar Dias. The beach is situated at a pivotal point, where the River Mandovi and the Arabian Sea meet.
During the Portuguese era, the area was home to the popular Casino Mira-Mar, an elegant small hotel built by Luciano Roncon. Contrary to modern notions, a casino in those days did not denote gambling—strictly prohibited under Portuguese rule. It served as a lively hub of Goan high society, echoing with music, laughter, and the charm of a bygone Panaji.
The present-day Foodland Restaurant in Miramar Residency has taken the place of that hotel. From Praia de Gaspar Dias, the beach became Miramar beach, and today it is a magnet for locals and tourists alike.
Clube Gaspar Dias
It is said that around 1921, a cheerful and spirited group of citizens envisioned a seaside retreat away from the bustle of the city. After several meetings, they decided to establish a club, which they named Clube de Gaspar Dias, inspired by the nearby fort. The club basic constitution of the Club was registered on April 25, 1926.
As a temporary setup, a simple shack made of bamboo mats and coconut fronds was erected on land at Gaspar Dias, which was generously provided by the Camotim Mamai family's head, Subraia Camotim. There, the men from elite families enjoyed games like sol, poker, bridge, canasta, and chess or draughts, while the ladies served homemade snacks, practiced embroidery, or engaged in lively conversation.
In 1934, Josephine Hogaz, an American industrial magnate, introduced the game of tennis to Goa and generously financed the construction of the first tennis court at the club premise. The new sport quickly gained popularity among its members. During the 1930s, the club expanded its recreational offerings and evolved into a lively social and entertainment hub. With the addition of a second tennis court, tennis emerged as its defining activity, leading to the club’s new identity as the ‘Clube de Ténis de Gaspar Dias.’
During the presidency of Oliveira Chaves, then Director of Posts and Telegraphs, the club attained long-sought stability, transitioning from what had previously been managed as a family-run establishment. To formalise its operations, bylaws were drafted and officially approved through Portaria (Order No. 609 dated 2 January 1948), published in the Government Gazette.
In 1950, Sridora Caculo, a prominent businessman of the era, constructed and partially financed the present clubhouse, which included an indoor badminton pavilion. The Casa Social de Camotim Mamai generously donated additional land—bringing the total area to about 12,000 square meters.
With a journey of 100 years, the club experienced a vibrant revival, expanding into a dynamic center for sports, cultural events, and educational activities—a spirit that continues to define Clube de Ténis de Gaspar Dias to this day.
