Macau is a place teeming with examples of colonial architecture and influence and one such epic depiction are the ruins of St. Paul’s and Monte Fort. Learn more about them.
The Ruins of St. Paul’s
The Ruins of St. Paul’s is known as Sam Ba Sing Tzik which stands in ruin opposite the Macau Museum and Mount Fortress.
A Brief History
St Paul’s was first constructed in 1580 and was caught in fires repeatedly in 1595 and 1601. Once it had gone through reconstruction, the church was the biggest cathedral in East Asia. It lasted until 1835 when a violent typhoon whipped across Macau and the church caught fire for the third time.
The Architecture
St. Paul’s is said to have been constructed with white stones and a vaulted roof. It was constructed in granite and cast in five tiers. You can learn more about the architecture by dropping by for a visit when you stay at a local resort like Hotel Okura Macau.
Monte Fort
Another favourite recommended by Macau five star hotels is a visit to Monte Fort which is the oldest fort in the island. It was constructed in 1616 and was used as a defence system for St. Paul’s protecting the church from pirates.