Reis Magos fort and the Three Kings church
Reis Magos is one of Goa's oldest forts, first built in the mid-16th century on the north bank of the Mandovi and rebuilt in 1707. Its position, low on the river opposite Panjim, made it the first line of defence for Old Goa upstream. It later served as a jail and fell into ruin before a careful restoration, completed in 2012, reopened it as a cultural centre.
Inside, the bastions, cannons and walkways have been put back in order, and small galleries tell the story of the fort and Goa's resistance movement, along with exhibitions of art. From the ramparts there is a direct view across the Mandovi to the Panjim waterfront.
Below the fort, the Church of the Reis Magos, the Three Kings, dates from the mid-16th century and carries the royal arms of Portugal on its façade. On 6 January, the Feast of the Three Kings is celebrated here with a procession of boys dressed as the kings.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Is Reis Magos fort open to the public?
Yes, the restored fort has been open as a cultural centre, usually closed on Mondays, with a small entry fee. Opening days, hours and fees change, so check current status before you travel. Allow about an hour for the fort and the church.
How far is Reis Magos from Candolim?
Reis Magos is at Verem, about 6 km from Candolim and 10 minutes by car. It is also about 15 minutes from Panjim across the Mandovi bridge, which makes it easy to combine with Fontainhas or Fort Aguada on the same day.
What is the Feast of the Three Kings?
Held on 6 January, the Feast of the Three Kings, or Reis Magos, is celebrated at the Reis Magos church and at Chandor and Cansaulim in south Goa. Boys from the parish dressed as the three kings lead a procession, and a village fair follows.
Also in Candolim, Sinquerim and Nerul
More hours to plan around
