Three Kings Chapel: A Haunted Hilltop Vista

The Three Kings Chapel, also known as the Chapel of Our Lady of Remedies (Nossa Senhora dos Remédios), sits atop Cuelim Hill in Cansaulim, offering stunning panoramic views of South Goa and the Arabian Sea. Built in 1599 by Fr. Goncalo Carvalho, the chapel is affiliated with the Parish of St. Thomas Church, Cansaulim. The chapel is renowned for its tranquil ambiance and the legends that shroud it in mystery. The chapel's history is intertwined with local folklore, primarily tales of three Portuguese kings (or princes) who fought for control of the region. One popular story recounts how one king poisoned the other two during a dinner, only to be met with the wrath of the villagers, leading him to commit suicide by consuming the same poison. The bodies of these kings are believed to be buried on the church grounds, giving rise to stories of their spirits haunting the chapel. Every year on January 6th, the Feast of the Three Kings (Festa dos Reis) is celebrated with great pomp. Three young boys are chosen from the villages of Cansaulim, Arossim, and Cuelim to represent the three wise men who visited baby Jesus. Dressed as kings, they ride on horseback to the chapel, carrying gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, marking the end of the Christmas season. The feast includes a high mass, processions, and a vibrant fair. Despite its haunted reputation, the Three Kings Chapel remains a popular destination for those seeking a break from Goa's beaches and party scene. The hilltop location provides a serene escape with breathtaking views, especially at sunset. Visitors are advised to leave before sunset, respecting local beliefs and the chapel's mysterious aura.