About Three Kings Chapel
Three Kings Chapel is a Roman Catholic chapel located on Cuelim Hill in Cansaulim, South Goa. Founded in 1599 by Father Gonçalo Carvalho, it is affiliated with St Thomas Church, Cansaulim. Originally dedicated to Our Lady of Remedies, it is widely known for the annual Feast of the Epiphany on January 6 and local folklore regarding three Portuguese kings. The hilltop site offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and surrounding landscape.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a historic 16th-century chapel situated atop an isolated hillock with 360-degree views of the Arabian Sea and South Goa's greenery. The site is primarily known for its architecture, scenic sunset vantage point, and association with local legends. Access involves a ride or trek up Cuelim Hill. The chapel interior may not always be open to the public outside of mass or feast days.
Key highlights
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Founded in 1599 by Father Gonçalo Carvalho
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Panoramic views of the Arabian Sea from Cuelim Hill
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Annual Feast of the Three Kings celebrated on January 6
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Associated with local folklore about three Portuguese kings
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Originally dedicated as Chapel of Our Lady of Remedies
History of Three Kings Chapel
The chapel was founded in 1599 by Jesuit priest Father Gonçalo Carvalho and is one of the older religious structures in South Goa. It has been affiliated with the Parish of St Thomas Church, Cansaulim since its establishment. The site is historically linked to the celebration of the Epiphany feast which dates back centuries in Goan tradition.
Culture & Context
The chapel hosts the annual Feast of the Three Kings (Epiphany) on January 6, a significant cultural event where three young boys from neighboring villages are dressed as kings and carried in procession. This tradition represents a unique blend of Christian liturgy and local Goan customs. The site also holds a prominent place in Goan folklore regarding haunted legends.
Route
| By road |
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