Welcome to what was once Goa's Alcatraz!
There was a time, when the Reis Magos fort, a key piece of the Portuguese coastal defense mechanism, was a thing to be feared and looked at in awe. Now, newly renovated and restored back to its glory, Reis Magos is a fascinating example of how heritage, if looked after, can work miracles as far as attracting tourists is concerned.
You can get a glimpse of the fort from the banks of Panaji, but the rocky splendor of the fort can be enjoyed better, only if you make it across the banks and head for the picturesque village of Reis Magos, where the fort stands majestically. There’s talk of the tourism authorities building a ropeway from Panaji to Reis Magos fort, but for now a drive down to the fort is a pleasant experience, through the serpentine road running parallel to the Mandovi on both sides of the river bank.
The fort is steeped in popular legend as well as history. Reis Magos, popular historians say, is a Biblical reference to the three wise mentioned in the Holy book.
Built in 1493, the Reis Magos was strategic, in the sense it covered the narrowest part of the Mandovi estuary and stood guard against any invasions by the enemy through sea.
Originally used as defensive fort, it was later used as a jail and then a hospital, before it was abandoned and ran to ruin. It was restored a few years ago thanks to the efforts of the legendary illustrator and son of the soil Mario Miranda assisted by architect Gerard D’ Cunha in association with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage and the Lady Hamlyn of the Helen Hamlyn trust.
The fort now serves as a splendid backdrop for stunning photo ops (get here around sunset), film shoots, celebrity weddings, even as a convention centre for meetings and exhibitions.
