Reis Magos Church

Reis Magos Church, Goa, India
	Reis Magos Church is one of the most famous churches of Goa. This is one of the three places where the exclusive feast of the three wise men is held. This is dedicated to the three characters of the Christmas, they are Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar. This church is amongst the oldest churches of Goa. It was built in the year 1555. The entrance of the church is painted in white color that is easily visible from across the river in the capital city of Goa, Panjim. The person who was responsible for the missionary work of the church in that area is Franciscan friars. He was the one who took the responsibility and initiative for managing the activities of the church. He also arranged a small seminar here regarding the church construction. This church is very beautiful; especially the interiors are very fascinating. This church has a multicolored ceiling that is in wood. This displays the three wise Men holding gifts in their hands for baby Jesus. These is a centre piece that is elaborately painted and carved reredos hat is behind the high altar. This church is dedicated to St. Jerome. Legends have found proper and strong evidence to prove that this church is built on Hindu temple. The church and the seminary were established very fast, as a site for learning. This church very soon became the main attraction of Goa. Its prominences that can be gauged fromthe details, that the Portuguese had their royal coast of arms marked below the crucifix at the top of the gable. Two of the Goan's former Viceroys are buried here, their inscriptions in Latin and Portuguese languages are visible clearly even today. There is tomb of Dom Luis De Ataide who has gained the fame all over the Portuguese empire. His spirited the defense of the Goan colony that too with just 700 men, he managed to keep a cove over 10, 00 Muslims attackers that were supported by 2000 elephants that continued for over ten long months. Every year on 6th January there is a feast Dos Reis Magos, during this time the story of the three wise men is narrated by the local youth. The local person celebrates the journey of the kings who went to worship holy baby Jesus. There is a procession that starts from church and goes all around the village. Travel Route: Airways: Nearest airport is the Dabolim which is at a distance of about 29 kilometers away from the Reis Magos Church. Railways: Nearest railway station is the Margo station which is at a distance of about 33 kilometers away from the Reis Magos Church. Road Ways: There are state transport and luxury bus services available from Reis Magos Church to all major cities of India. There are local bus and taxi services available from busstation to Reis Magos Church.