Location : Banks of Mandovi River, Reis Magos village.
Main Attraction : Reis Magos fort, Feast of the Three Wise Men.
How to Reach : Local transport available in Goa. |
This magnificent church was built way back in 1555. The church is dedicated
to St. Jerome. This church was taken over by the Franciscan friars who
watched over the missionary work here. They also founded a small educational
institution over here. The Reis Magos fort is another famous attraction here
that was built before the church was built.
It is said that the church was built on the ruins of an ancient Hindu
temple. The evidence in front of you in the form of a sacred Hindu symbol
that is typical of the Vijayanagar temple style. As you climb the stairs of
the church, you get to see the bas-relief lion statues on the sides of the
stairs, which is typical of a Hindu temple.
The church had much importance
during the Portugal rule and in fact two Viceroys of Goa were buried over
here and their tomb stones are still present.
The church is decorated beautifully inside and is quite colorful, unlike the
outside walls that painted in sparkling white. The wooden supports are multi
colored and show depictions of the Three Wise Men going with gifts to see
Baby Jesus Christ. The altar is quite high and has the above mentioned
backdrop. Every year the church hosts the annual feast of the Three Wise Men
on January 6th.
The locals of the village participate enthusiastically and enact the roles
of the Three Kings of Magi. A procession to mark the journey of the three
kings begins from the church and goes around the village spreading cheer and
happiness.
Other Churches of Goa
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