Paro Province occupied lands in western Bhutan, corresponding approximately to modern Paro District. It was administered from the Paro Dzong in the town of Paro. The ruling governor was known as the Penlop of Paro, or Parob, a chief contender for power before the establishment of the monarchy. By the 19th century, the Penlop of Paro effectively controlled the western half of Bhutan.[1][2]: 123, 132 [3]: 201