Have you ever wondered what it would be like to visit a church that is haunted by the ghosts of three kings who died there? If you are looking for a thrilling and unique experience in Goa, then you should not miss the Three Kings Church, one of the most haunted places of Goa. The Three Kings Church is a historic and religious site that dates back to the 16th century. It is located on a hilltop in the village of Cansaulim, about 15 km from the city of Margao.
In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the Three Kings Church, from its history and culture to its haunted and scenic features. We will also give you some tips on how to plan your visit, what to expect, and what to avoid.
History and Legend of the Three Kings Church
The Three Kings Church was built in 1599 by Fr Gonzalo Carvalho S.J., a Jesuit priest who was also the rector of the Rachol Seminary. The church was dedicated to Our Lady of Remedies, and was named after the three kings who visited Jesus Christ on the day of his birth. The church is also known as the Epiphany of the Three Kings, which means the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God. The church is a fine example of the Portuguese colonial architecture, with a simple and elegant facade, a spacious nave, and a high altar.
The church also houses some of the relics and paintings of the Jesuit missionaries who worked in Goa. The church is also the site of a tragic and mysterious incident that occurred in the 17th century, when Goa was under the Portuguese rule. According to the legend, there were three local kings who were competing for the throne of Goa, namely Raja Holkar of Ponda, Raja Surya Rao of Sanguem, and Raja Savai Madhavrao of Sawantwadi.
Feast of Three Kings Chapel
The Three Kings Church is also known for its annual festival, the Feast of Three Kings Chapel, which is celebrated on January 6th every year. This is the day when the three kings visited Jesus Christ, and recognized him as the Son of God. The festival is a major event in Goa, and attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from across the state and beyond.
The festival involves a procession of three young boys, aged between 8 and 10, who are dressed as kings. The boys are chosen from the local families and are considered to be blessed and lucky. The boys are accompanied by a priest, a choir, and a band, and they walk from the Cansaulim village to the Three Kings Church, which is about 2 km away.
The festival also showcases the rich and diverse culture of Goa, with people from different religions, communities, and backgrounds participating and celebrating together. The festival is a great opportunity to witness the faith and devotion of the Goan people, and to experience the joy and spirit of the Epiphany.
Haunted Reputation of the Three Kings Church
The Three Kings Church is also one of the most haunted places of Goa, and is a popular destination for those who are interested in the paranormal and the supernatural. The church is said to be haunted by the spirits of the three kings who died there, and who are still angry and vengeful.
Some of the visitors have also reported having nightmares, hallucinations, or illnesses, after visiting the church. Some of the visitors have also claimed to have captured evidence of the haunting, such as photos, videos, or audio recordings, which show or hear the presence of the spirits.
The church is a hotspot for paranormal investigators, who have conducted several experiments and investigations at the church, using various equipment and methods. Some of the investigations have confirmed the existence of the spirits, while some have debunked the claims. The church is also a popular spot for thrill-seekers, who dare to visit the church at night, and challenge the spirits.
Scenic Location of the Three Kings Church
The Three Kings Church is also a scenic and tranquil spot, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and the view of the sea. The church is located on a hilltop, which offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea, the Cansaulim beach, the Cuelim hill, and the surrounding greenery. The church is a great place to relax and unwind, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The church is also a great place to watch the sunrise or the sunset, as the sky changes its colors and hues. The church is also a great place to take pictures, as the church and its surroundings provide a picturesque and postcard-perfect backdrop.
Other Attractions Nearby
The church is also close to some of the other popular attractions in Goa, such as:
1. The Cansaulim beach, which is one of the longest and cleanest beaches in Goa, and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or water sports.
2. The Cuelim hill, which is a natural and historical site, and is home to the Cuelim Fort, the Cuelim Church, and the Cuelim Museum.
3. The Cansaulim market, which is a lively and colorful market, and is a great place to buy local products, such as fruits, vegetables, spices, handicrafts, or souvenirs.
The church is a place where you can find something for everyone, whether you are a history buff, a ghost hunter, a nature lover, or a culture vulture. If you are planning to visit Goa, then you should not miss the Three Kings Church, as it is one of the most unique and memorable attractions in Goa. Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you soon at the Three Kings Church.
