Reis Magos Fort , Goa

Owned by the Goa government, the Reis Magos Fort is among the popular ancient monuments in Goa. The 400 year old fort, constructed in the year 1551 happens to be one of the oldest forts in Goa. It is believed that the name of the fort was laid after three men from the Bible. Today, the fort falls under the ownership of the Goa government and finds itself on the list of Goa ancient monuments. It has been fully restored and serves as a heritage centre in the town. 

What started as a defence fortress, this fort has served multiple uses as a jail and then a hospital. Back in 1993, the fort was completely abandoned and left to perish in a neglected state. After being renovated, the fort was opened to the general public in the year 2012. At present, the fort serves under a guided vision and mission to promote cultural heritage in Goa. This is why, it has also become a centre for displaying numerous exhibitions, fairs, festivals and educational events. 

The fort is built in a typical fusion style of architecture, combining Hindu and Portuguese styles. It is known that the altitude of the fort gives a splendid view of the surrounding sea and landscape of Goa. It is also home to several artefacts, including 7 guns from the Portuguese era. The place is well connected with major railways stations, including Karmali, Verna, and Vasco da Gama. One can also get here by plane through the Dabolim airport.

About Reis Magos Fort Galleries - 

Freedom Fighter’s Gallery: This gallery was inaugurated in the Reis Magos Fort in June 2016. 

This gallery is meant to understand the knowledge of the struggle for liberation from the rule of the Portuguese. All around the gallery, you will find historical stories that depict the various occurrences which happened during the freedom fight from the Portuguese.

 Also, you will be able to know more about Vasco da Gama’s journey to Goa. Also highlighted is the role of the Indian Navy in the liberation of Goa. 

Art gallery: At this gallery, you will be able to bear witness to various original artworks by different artists, hailing from Goa. What is exciting to observe with each such artwork is the surreal use of different drawing mediums, including water colours, acrylic colours, oil paintings, photographs, and use of canvas. 

This gallery is a platform for different artists, all over Goa, to showcase their skills and talent and get a chance to earn viewership for their work. This gallery is the center for one of many events and exhibitions, which are held for the benefit of the community. 

History and restoration hall: At this gallery, visitors can view exhibits that spell a detailed history of the fort. It is owing to these exhibits that one may be able to comprehend the timeline of the fort’s use as a defense center, a jail, and then a hospital. 

Gun loops: The structure here is designed to provide shelter in the event of an enemy attack. After the restoration of the fort was completed, the gallery was used to exhibit images of the town of Goa. 

The construction at the Mandovi River, for its defense against invasion, began in 1550, which led to the building of the Reis Magos Fort in multiple stages. It is believed that the fort held great strategic importance and stood to serve as the first line of defense for the port town.

 It was built by the Portuguese in a bid to keep the Dutch at bay from invading their land. It was soon realized by the Portuguese that the fort held great strategic importance, which is why important changes were carried out to the structure in 1707. 33 guns of varying calibers were deployed at the fort during this time. 

During the period of 1799 to 1813, Portuguese Goa was occupied by the British. It was in 1808 that they began making use of the Reis Magos Fort for lodging their soldiers. 

The 19th century witnessed a decrease in the number of naval threats. At the same time, Old goa lost its prominence due to the growing popularity of Panjim, which led to reduced use of the fort. 

This is why the fort was converted into a jail to store convicts. During the 1950’s, it also served as a lodging for freedom fighters. It is believed that the fort continued to be used as a jail until 1993, after which it was left to decay. 

The architecture of Reis Magos Fort - 

The reason why the fort has gained prominence and popularity is due to its history and its close location to the capital city, Panjim. 

Many believe the architecture of the fort to be a combination of Hindu and Portuguese styles of architecture which are seen prevalent today. The fort, in its present state, is the result of multiple renovations and constructions, collectively by the Portuguese and the Marathas. 

The exterior of the fort was bound with laterite walls. The fort was given a decent altitude that allows tourists to gain a splendid view of the surrounding region. 

If aerial views of the fort are to be observed, one will discover how the Portuguese built a fort to collect water in large quantities, which would come in use during a time of crisis. 

The architectural heritage of the fort is exemplified by the presence of a church nearby.