Reis Magos Fort

This fort is one of the best places to visit in Goa. While Panjim nestles on one side of Mandovi, the other side houses this famous fort. The fort looks majestic, even though it's smaller in comparison with rest of the Goan forts. It nestles itself on the northern shore of the river. The year 1551 saw this fort get erect under the erstwhile Goan Viceroy, Alfonso de Naronha. This fort was used as a residence for Portuguese VIPs originally, but, was later changed into a fortress for guarding against the Maratha Empire. Laterite stone was used in building the fort that is nestled on top of a hill. Visitors can reach the hilltop using a tapered staircase. 

The Unique Experience

Aren’t you tired of visiting the same old spots every-time you come down to Goa? If you want to have an enriching experience, then make your way to Reis Magos Fort, we would like to address as a precious gem shrouded with a rich historical past. It’s the oldest of all forts in Goa. 

History 

Bijapur ruler Adil Shah got his fortified military camp (present day fort) erected in the late 1400s before it was invaded by the Portuguese. They constructed the fort in 1551 and used it for preventing invasions by Marathas in 1739. This fort has passed through several stages, first as a fortified outpost, then as a prison, and lastly as a hospital. In 1993, the fort deteriorated and was abandoned.

However, with the efforts of Mario Miranda, the convoker of INTACH Goa, the repair work started and brought back the fort to its former glory. It was on 5th June 2012 that the doors of the fort were opened for the people. 

Reis Magos Fort architecture

Some features to see at this fort are underground rooms, turrets in the shape of barrels, secret passages and bending dividers. The architecture is a blend between Portuguese and Hindu styles. Out of a total of 33 guns that were housed inside the fort, only 7 remain to this day. 

Reis Magos Fort wedding

The reis Magos Fort offers several venues withing its walls. In such venues, a wedding or any event can be organized. 

Reis Magos Fort meaning

Reis Magos is a village that is located on the northern bank of the Mandovi river. Reis Magos is the Portuguese name of three wise fens who were mentioned in the Bible. From those three names, the fort got its name. 

What else?

Reis Magos Fort is a very popular place in Goa tour packages. Inside the fort, there are galleries that must be visited. Some of these are the Freedom Fighter’s Gallery, the Art Gallery, Gallery of History and Restoration as well as Gunloops. 

Reis Magos Fort timings

9:30 AM to 5 PM except Mondays.