Reis Magos Fort: Guide To This Underrated Landmark With Mario Miranda Artworks

An underrated tourist spot, the renovated Reis Magos Fort houses Mario Miranda’s artwork, Portuguese-era cannons, a stellar library and beautiful views of the sea. It’s also perfect to catch a Goan sunset! This 16th century fort brings together three important points of Goa’s history —  Reis Magos Fort was built upon the ruins of an ancient Indian pagoda by Franciscans, signifying the incoming Portuguese-Christian rule, and now plays host to the artworks of Mario Miranda (one of Goa’s most beloved artists) — each change signifying the influx of a new era.

The fort was originally used as a point of defence. You can expect to find centuries-old cannons scattered about, as well as “death holes”, through which hot oil was poured to prevent intruders. Reis Magos was taken over and occupied by the British for a short period, after which it was converted into a prison. Peek into the chilling solitary confinement rooms, and experience some brief, but very visible, remnants of history. Entry is INR 50, as the fort was recently renovated — something Mario Miranda dreamt of, but didn’t live to see.

It has been restored and maintained beautifully, and serves as a great source of information — everything is explained thoroughly on placards, and there’s even a library filled with old literature that is a must-see for all lovers of history and architecture.

Close to Coco beach, you can take a bus that will drop you within 2 kms of the fort. It’s up to you to either hire a car, take an auto or walk!

Best Time To Visit: It’s a beautiful trek, although we recommend avoiding it midday, as it is an uphill hike and the sun tends to get rather hot. 

Open: 9:30 AM - 5 PM (Mondays Closed)

Entry Fee: INR 50

Duration: A quick visit can last about an hour but for a detailed exploration you’ll need to have atleast two hours in hand. 

Perched along the banks of the Mandovi River, Reis Magos Church is a striking landmark in Bardez, Goa. Named after the Three Wise Men of Magi, it’s one of the few places in Goa where the Epiphany (Feast of the Three Kings) is celebrated with vibrant processions and reenactments on January 6th. This church, belonging to the Franciscan order, is just a short 200-meter walk from Reis Magos Fort.

Feeling hungry after exploring the fort? Head over to The Lazy Goose, just 3 kilometers away, for their famous delicacies and a relaxing riverside ambiance.

If you have extra time and an appetite for more adventures, take a trip to Panjim, the vibrant heart of Goa. Stroll through the colorful streets of Fontainhas Latin Quarter, unwind at Miramar Beach, or dive into history at the Goa State Museum.

The fort overlooks the confluence of the Mandovi river and the Arabian sea, and has a beautiful deck, which you should head to at sunset for a really stunning, panoramic view. You can also catch a great view of Panjim. Even if you’re unwilling to stay so late, don’t fret — if you’re there earlier on in the day, you might be lucky enough to spot dolphins.