The Kun Iam Temple has a long history and is probably the most famous of the three main temples in Macau. Not only is it a place of immense beauty, it is also the site of an important historical moment- the signing of the first treaty between China and America, which took place here in 1844. The Buddhist temple’s history can be traced to the early 1600s, towards the latter part of the Ming Dynasty. The temple is quite similar to other Chinese temples and incorporates many of the same architectural features.
The ancient temple contains three major halls of worship. In the Hall of Sakyamuni one can find several statues of Sakyamuni. The Hall of the Three Precious Buddhas, which houses three Buddha statues made of bronze, is noted for its bell which is over three centuries old. The Kun Iam Hall is the main hall and contains a statue of Kun Iam, the Goddess of Mercy. The statue of Kun Iam is flanked by several Buddha statues. The silken garb worn by the statue is changed every year.
The temple is situated along Avenida do Coronel Mesquita and one can get here by bus. Opening hours are between 10 am and 6 pm. There is no admission fee and everyone is welcome to enter. A place of quiet beauty and intense spirituality, no trip to Macau can be considered complete without visiting the Kun Iam Temple. Those who enjoyed visiting the temple can also try visiting the Lin Fung Temple (also called the Lotus Temple) and the A-Ma Temple.
Macau is, like Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China, and like Hong Kong it operates under its own set of rules. A popular spot for casinos and shopping malls, it is a fun place to take a vacation. Those who want to stay in the best Macau Hotels while on holiday will not be disappointed with the offerings by the Galaxy Macau Resort Hotel. The Macau hotel combines an excellent location with elegantly decorated rooms and impeccable service. It is the ideal vacation choice for both business and leisure travellers.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
