At the tail end of vacationing in Hong Kong and while en route back to my home in Seoul, I had the chance to spend one day in Macau, a small providence close to Hong Kong and China. I traveled from Hong Kong to Macau via ferry (1 hour trip) and once docked I found some city maps and walking tour suggestions. So instead of paying for a tour group I just took off on foot and created my own walking tour of Macau’s historic landmarks.
Macau was Europe’s very first settlement in Asia It was founded by the Portuguese and it’s architecture, foods, and culture are still highly Portuguese-ish. It’s an absolutely beautiful city and is referred to as a “a little Europe in Asia”. The main historical attractions are churches, libraries, old congress buildings, and the town center, Senado Square.
I started my “heritage walk” heading towards Senado Square, the town center. While on my way to the square, I made small detours to see other attractions along the way. Mainly churches and old governmental buildings.
Once at Senado Square, I was as amazed more than the pictures had! Just the same as the other churches and Portuguese buildings scattered throughout Macau, Senado Square was beautiful. I have never been to Italy, Spain, or Europe...but I really felt as if these buildings scream European culture!!! The square has a small fountain at the middle of it, surrounded by the heritage buildings, such as Holy House of Mercy, the post office, and Leal Senado Building.
My next stop was St. Dominic Church, very near Senado Square. It was built between 1590 - 1610, and is still used today.
Despite all the historic site I had seen, there was still one left that I just HAD to see, the Ruins of St. Paul Church and Monte Forte. St. Paul Cathedral Church was originally one of the largest churches in Macau, however it was used during a military crisis as a storage center for war materials and there was an explosion causing the church to catch fire. The wooden church burnt, but the original stone front of St. Paul’s still stands. Walking up the stairs to the ruins....it just got more and more amazing as I approached. I understand why it is the ‘symbol’ of Macau.
After viewing all the sites I wished to see, I spent the rest of my afternoon wandering down small tiny side streets admiring the beauty and peace Macau has to offer. I also sampled some of the famous Macanese/Portuguese food such as almond cookies and egg tarts. Both- Patrick Approved!!!
A one day trip WASN’T enough to understand the culture in Macau, but the trip was really a wonderful experience. If I ever get a chance, I would love to visit this beautiful European city in the south of China again!
It's cool how architecture is so similar in such different parts of our world. I mean, those cathedrals really do look just like ones you'd find in Europe. Isn't it amazing how that one structure can serve as a symbol that is recognized internationally?
ReplyDeleteThe history of the ruins is really interesting! i bet it felt really unique to be at that site :)
Looks like a fun trip
Yes, it was truly amazing to view both the interior and exterior architecture of all the cathedrals and city buildings; as well as all the beautiful artwork adorned on the ceilings and walls. To you, Christy, it made you think of Europe. Although I did state that it was the little "Europe in Asia", to me it reminded me of the spanish churches I used to go to with my friends back in the midwest-USA. Again, another great example how architecture and customs have no borders :)
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