Macau, aka the “Vegas of China” is not just famous for its mega casinos and shopping malls, but also for its heritage sites located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Centre of Macao. Here are five of the best sites you’ll see here.
St. Paul Ruins
This is undoubtedly Macau’s most iconic landmark and is ranked the Number 1 amongst its attractions by many a Macau travel guide. It’s located within Santo António which is an area that’s very popular amongst tourists and close to many hotels like Hotel Okura Macau. From what was once a magnificent Portuguese cathedral only the intricately carved southern facade remains after a tragic fire that burnt down the rest of the church in 1835.
Senado Square
Considered to be the heart of old Macau, Senado Square is home to a range of spectacular colonial buildings. During the 16th and 18th centuries, the square was used as a meeting place for the Portuguese and Chinese.
Na Tcha Temple and Section of the Old City Walls
Situated behind the ruins of St. Paul, the Na Tcha Temple belongs to the late 19th Century.
This Taoist temple was built in the late 19th century and is located just behind the ruins of St. Paul. Meanwhile, the section of the old city wall is located on the temple’s right side. The old city wall was constructed in 1569 and is an example of Portuguese defensive wall structures in various settlements or areas colonized by the Portuguese.
Mandarin’s House: This Chinese residential compound is another example of western architectural influence in Macau. Therefore, it is a must-see for anyone visiting the Historic Center of Macau.
Mount Fortress: The fortress originally featured cannons and military barracks with a storage capacity that could keep arms and war materials for as long as two years.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+
