Once a Portuguese colony, Macau is today an administrative region of the People’s Republic of China and offers travellers a chance to experience the region’s rich history including its colonial past. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage List, the historic centre of Macau is home to several historical attractions such as St. Dominic Church.
Located on the Largo de Sao Domingos, this ancient Catholic Church was originally built by the Dominicans who arrived in Macau. Renovated and restored in 1828, the church showcases a fascinating blend of Spanish and Portuguese style architecture within its hallowed walls.
St. Dominic Church also boasts a colourful history including being the place where a military officer who was in favour of the Spanish was murdered in 1644. It is also the site where Dominican friars locked themselves up in the premises for three days against soldiers who were trying to put into force an excommunication order on them for siding with the pope against the local bishop in 1707.
Visitors to St. Dominic Church can explore the premises which house several historical architectural features and works of art. Attractions include an elaborate baroque alter, the seal of St. Dominic which can be found on the ceiling, a large statue of Jesus Christ, the Dominican Order’s emblem, a statue of the Virgin Mary holding the holy infant as well as a variety of other statues of such revered saints as St. Francis and St. Caetano.
Designed with an ornate wooden roof, mosaic tiles made out of ceramics and a choir loft that looks out across the nearby plaza, St. Dominic Church is also home to a museum located on the 2nd and 3rd floors. Here one can view a variety of sacred objects, relics and works of art including sculptures, paintings and sacred artefacts. The church is also one of the venues which hosts the Macau International Music Festival (MIMF) and is the starting point of the annual parade of Our Lady of Fatima on May 13th as well.
Travellers to the region will find a Macau hotels in various locations that cater to different needs and budgets. Those looking among the many luxury hotels Macau, can stay at the Galaxy Macau Resort Hotel which offers the very best in facilities and services.
