The Ruins of St. Paul’s are the most popular tourist landmarks in Macau, renowned for their long and rich history. It has been around for many centuries, and this attraction still continues to amaze visitors each...
Macau Churches
Macau churches showcase some of the world’s most beautiful religious chapels, cathedrals, and convents.
It might be surprising to find European churches in this area, but the Portuguese influence and their colourful history are still alive and kicking in these stunning places of worship.
Macau Churches, Famous Catholic Cathedrals, Tours, Mass Schedules
The Chapel of Our Lady of Penha dates back to 1622 when it was built by Portuguese sailors who were able to escape an attempt by the Dutch to invade Macau. Its sheer beauty is breathtaking, surrounded by lush greens and flowers, making it a popular choice for wedding photography.
Meanwhile, St Dominic’s Church was built in 1587 by 3 Spanish Dominican priests, though it was restored in 1828. It now houses the Museum of Sacred Art, where over 300 religious artefacts are found.
The St Francis Xavier is among the most popular Macau churches, known for its iconic yellow and white facade and baroque architecture. Inside, there are some of the most sacred Christian relics on the continent, such as St Francis’ arm bone.
The Guia Chapel is a small yet beautiful chapel within the Guia Fortress, located next to a lighthouse. It dates back to 1637 and houses ancient religious artefacts, including an image of the Virgin Mary and an old painting of St. John the Baptist.
Head towards the southern coastline to discover the St Lawrence Church, established in the mid-16th century by Jesuits. It’s among the oldest churches in the country and has exceptional Neoclassical architecture.
Don’t miss the Ruins of St. Paul’s, the most famous landmark here. Its stone facade is what remains of the church after a fire in 1835, yet it’s worth visiting for the panoramic city views and the Museum of Sacred Art and the Crypt.
Don’t forget to include these in your itinerary when visiting the different Macau churches.
Ruins of St Pauls
(English: Ruins of St Pauls, Portuguese: Ruínas de São Paulo, Traditional: 大三巴牌坊, Simplified: 大三巴牌坊)Macau, Macau
A-Ma Temple
(English: A-Ma Temple, Portuguese: Templo de A-Má, Traditional: 媽閣廟, Simplified: 妈阁庙)Macau, Macau
The A-Ma Temple is a world heritage site in Macau. It was built dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess of fishermen and sailors, in 1488 during the Ming Dynasty. Today, it is the oldest temple in Macau and is one of...
A-Ma Cultural Village
(English: A-Ma Cultural Village, Portuguese: Aldeia Cultural de A-Má, Traditional: 媽祖文化村, Simplified: 妈祖文化村)Coloane, Macau
The A-Ma Cultural Village is an important religious attraction in Coloane. The 7,000 square meter large Buddhist/Taoist temple complex was built in 2003 in honour of A-Ma, the Goddess of Seafarers. A-Ma Cultural...
The Zhulin Temple is one of the Buddhist temples in Macau. It’s one of the newer temples in the area, having been built just in 1991. Zhulin Temple, History, Garden, Shrines, Courtyard, Fountain, Macau Even...
St Dominics Church
(English: St Dominics Church, Portuguese: Igreja de São Domingos, Traditional: 玫瑰堂, Simplified: 玫瑰堂)Macau, Macau
St. Dominic’s Church is a historic Catholic church established by Spanish Dominican priests in 1587. It was built to enshrine a statue of Our Lady of the Rosary. St. Dominics Church, History, Sunday Mass Times...
Tin Hau Temple, Macau
(English: Tin Hau Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Tin Hau, Traditional: 天后古廟, Simplified: 天后古庙)Macau, Macau
Tin Hau Temple is the only temple found in Macau’s northeastern section. Nestled along the foot of the Ma Kau Seac Hill, this temple has a long and interesting history. Tin Hau Temple, Macau, History, Natural...
Morrison Chapel
(English: Morrison Chapel, Portuguese: Capela Protestante, Traditional: 馬禮遜教堂, Simplified: 马礼逊教堂)Macau, Macau
The Morrison Chapel is an Anglican church in Macau. Also known as the Macau Protestant Church, this beautiful place of worship has a history spanning around two hundred years. Morrison Chapel, Protestant Church...
Chapel Of Our Lady Of Penha
(English: Chapel Of Our Lady Of Penha, Portuguese: Capela de Nossa Senhora da Penha, Traditional: 主教山小堂, Simplified: 主教山小堂)Macau, Macau
The Chapel Of Our Lady Of Penha is a beautiful church on Penha Hill. It was constructed in 1622 and was under the ownership of the Augustinians until they were expelled from the country in 1834. Three years later, the...
Chapel Of Our Lady Of Guia
(English: Chapel Of Our Lady Of Guia, Portuguese: Capela de Nossa Senhora das Neves, Traditional: 聖母雪地殿教堂, Simplified: 圣母雪地殿教堂)Macau, Macau
The Chapel Of Our Lady Of Guia is one of the religious attractions in Macau. This beautiful chapel is small yet significant, adjacent to the iconic Guia Lighthouse. Chapel Of Our Lady Of Guia, Opening Hours, History...
St Augustines Church
(English: St Augustines Church, Portuguese: Igreja de Santo Agostinho, Traditional: 聖奧斯定教堂, Simplified: 圣奥斯定教堂)Macau, Macau
St. Augustine’s Church is an old Catholic church in Macau, built in 1586 by Italian Catholic priests. A few years after it was built, the Portuguese took over it. St Augustines Church, History, Weekday/Sunday Mass...
Cathedral Square
(English: Cathedral Square, Portuguese: Largo da Sé, Traditional: 大堂前地, Simplified: 大堂前地)Macau, Macau
Cathedral Square is a beautiful attraction within the Macau World Heritage Centre. It’s home to the Paco Episcopal Bishop’s House, Macau Cathedral, and the Cartorio da Se, as well as a fountain. Cathedral...
St Anthonys Church
(English: St Anthonys Church, Portuguese: Igreja de Santo António, Traditional: 聖安多尼教堂, Simplified: 圣安多尼教堂)Macau, Macau
St. Anthonys Church is one of Macau’s most famous and historic churches. It is also among the oldest, built in 1560 by the Society of Jesus to honour the Patron Saint of Marriage of Catholics. St Anthonys Church...
Our Lady of Fatima Church
(English: Our Lady of Fatima Church, Portuguese: Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Fátima, Traditional: 花地瑪聖母堂, Simplified: 花地玛圣母堂)Macau, Macau
The Our Lady of Fatima Church is the biggest parish church in the country. Constructed in 1929, the Catholic Diocese manages this church, and it has a long, colourful history. Our Lady of Fatima Church, Weekday &...
Four Faced Buddha
(English: Four Faced Buddha, Portuguese: Buda de Quatro Faces, Traditional: 四面佛, Simplified: 四面佛)Taipa, Macau
The Four Faced Buddha is a small shrine located facing the Macau Jockey Club in Taipa. This pavilion was built on an octagonal platform, and there are three steps of stairs leading to the shrine itself. Four Faced...
St Lazarus Church
(English: St Lazarus Church, Portuguese: Igreja de São Lázaro, Traditional: 望德聖母堂, Simplified: 望德圣母堂)Macau, Macau
St. Lazarus’ Church is among the oldest churches in Macau, having been built between the years of 1557 through 1560. Also known as the Hermitage of Our Lady of Hope, it was established to help the lepers of the...
Pak Tai Temple
(English: Pak Tai Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Pak Tai, Traditional: 氹仔北帝廟, Simplified: 氹仔北帝庙)Taipa, Macau
The Pak Tai Temple is a historic Taoist temple dating back over 160 years. It was built to pay tribute to the Northern Emperor, Pak Tai, whom devotees believe to have the power to protect people from the perils of...
Our Lady of Carmel Church
(English: Our Lady of Carmel Church, Portuguese: Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo, Traditional: 嘉模聖母堂, Simplified: 嘉模圣母堂)Macau, Macau
The Our Lady of Carmel Church is a historic church in Taipa. It was built in 1888 in a scenic location with a view of the sea and Taipa Village. Our Lady of Carmel Church, Weekday & Sunday Mass Times, Macau The...
Tam Kung Temple
(English: Tam Kung Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Tam Kung, Traditional: 譚公廟, Simplified: 谭公庙)Coloane, Macau
Tam Kung Temple is a famous old temple in Coloane. It was constructed in the 19th century to pay tribute to Tam Kung, the God of the Sea. Tam Kung Temple, History, Taoist, Dragon Boat Altar, Coloane, Macau The temple...
Chapel of St Francis Xavier
(English: Chapel of St Francis Xavier, Portuguese: Capela de São Francisco Xavier, Traditional: 路環聖方濟各聖堂, Simplified: 路环圣方济各圣堂)Coloane, Macau
The Chapel Of St. Francis Xavier is a Catholic church in the Coloane district of Macau. It was constructed in 1928, following the baroque style of most of the big churches in the country. Chapel of St Francis Xavier...
Na Tcha Temple
(English: Na Tcha Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Na Tcha, Traditional: 哪吒廟, Simplified: 哪吒庙)Macau, Macau
The Na Tcha Temple is a historical place of worship established in 1888. This temple is among the attractions of the UNESCO World Heritage List and is part of the Historic Centre of Macau. Na Tcha Temple, Exhibition...
The Hung Shing Temple is an ancient temple in Hac Sa Village, on the Coloane Island in Macau. It is the only temple in the area, making it a nice addition to your itinerary as you explore this stunning part of the...
Cathedral of the Nativity of Our Lady
(English: Cathedral of the Nativity of Our Lady, Portuguese: Sé Catedral da Natividade de Nossa Senhora, Traditional: 聖母聖誕堂, Simplified: 聖母誕辰主敎座堂/澳門主敎座堂)Macau, Macau
The Cathedral of the Nativity of Our Lady is one of the Roman Catholic churches in Macau. Also known as the Cathedral of Macau, this church within the Cathedral Square was built in 1576 originally as a small wooden...
Kun Iam Temple
(English: Kun Iam Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Kun Iam, Traditional: 觀音古廟, Simplified: 观音古庙)Macau, Macau
The Kun Iam Temple of Macau is one of the oldest and most important places of worship. It was built in the 13th century and is dedicated to the goddess Kun Iam, who is highly revered, especially among Chinese fishermen...
Chapel of St Michael the Archangel
(English: Chapel of St. Michael the Archangel, Portuguese: Capela de São Miguel Arcanjo, Traditional: 聖彌額爾小堂, Simplified: 圣弥额尔小堂)Macau, Macau
The Chapel of St. Michael the Archangel is a small, beautiful Catholic church with a cemetery. It’s recognized as one of the most beautiful churches in Macau and was built in 1875. Chapel of St Michael the...
Sam Kai Vui Kun
(English: Sam Kai Vui Kun, Portuguese: Templo de Sam Kai Vui Kun, Traditional: 三街會館, Simplified: 三街會館)Macau, Macau
Sam Kai Vui Kun, also known as the Kuan Tai Temple, is a small temple in Se, Macau. Its long history dates back to 1750, when it was built to initially function as a meeting venue for Chinese merchants and as a place of...
Lin Fung Temple
(English: Lin Fung Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Lin Fong, Traditional: 蓮峯廟, Simplified: 莲峯庙)Macau, Macau
The Lin Fung Temple is a beautifully restored 16th-century Buddhist temple in Macau. The temple was built in 1592, the 20th year of Ming Emperor Shenzong. Lin Fung Temple, History, Kun Iam, Photos, Location, Macau In...
Sam Po Temple
(English: Sam Po Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Sam Po, Traditional: 三婆廟, Simplified: 三婆庙)Taipa, Macau
Sam Po Temple is an ancient temple in Macau. Constructed in 1845, it underwent renovations later on. The temple was built in honour of the water goddess Sam Po, a deity who is also the sister of Tin Hau, known for being...
Chapel Of St James
(English: Chapel Of St James, Portuguese: Capela de São Tiago, Traditional: 聖雅各伯小堂)Macau, Macau
The Chapel of St. James is a small church within the walls of the Pousada de Santiago, a famous historic hotel in Macau. The church was built in 1740 in honour of Macau’s military protector, known for travelling...
Pau Kung Temple
(English: Pau Kung Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Pao Kong, Traditional: 包公廟, Simplified: 包公庙)Macau, Macau
The Pau Kung Temple is a historic feature of a three-temple complex in Macau. Constructed in 1889 under the Guangxu Reign, the rich history of this temple is still very much alive today. Pau Kung Temple, History, Lord...
Tin Hau Temple, Coloane
(English: Ancient Temple of Tin Hau in Coloane, Portuguese: Templo de Tin Hau de Coloane, Traditional: 路環天后古廟, Simplified: 路环天后古庙)Coloane, Macau
The Tin Hau Temple in Coloane is an ancient temple constructed sometime in 1763. It’s the largest and oldest temple in Coloane, located behind the village, though it requires climbing a flight of steps to access...
Hong Kung Temple
(English: Hong Kung Temple, Portuguese: Pagode do Bazar, Traditional: 康公廟, Simplified: 康公庙)Macau, Macau
The Hong Kung Temple is one of Macau’s historic temples whose origins date back more than 200 years. It was established to pay homage to patriotic men, including generals who served during the Han, Song, and Tang...
Lin Kai Temple
(English: Lin Kai Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Lin Kai, Traditional: 蓮溪廟, Simplified: 莲溪庙)Macau, Macau
Lin Kai Temple is an ancient temple built in 1830. It’s one of the biggest temples in Macau, as there are nine chambers inside it, and there are 15 gods who are venerated here. Lin Kai Temple, History, Pak Tai...
Sam Seng Temple
(English: Sam Seng Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Sam Seng, Traditional: 路環三聖宮, Simplified: 路环三圣宫)Coloane, Macau
Sam Seng Temple is one of the ancient temples in Macau and the oldest one in Ka Ho. It was built in 1865, the 4th year of Emperor Tongzhi. Sam Seng Temple, History, Empress of Kam Fa, Coloane, Macau Though the temple is...
Ancient Temple of Kun Iam in Coloane
(English: Ancient Temple of Kun Iam in Coloane, Portuguese: Templo antigo de Kun Iam em Coloane, Traditional: 路環觀音古廟, Simplified: 路环观音古庙)Coloane, Macau
The Ancient Temple of Kun Iam in Coloane is a smaller version of Macau’s famous Kun Iam Temple. You only need around 10 minutes to appreciate this tiny but marvellous temple. Ancient Temple of Kun Iam in Coloane...
The I Leng Temple is a small temple in Taipa. It was established in 1900 in honour of the Great Emperor of Healing, also known as Ka Sing Tong. I Leng Temple, History, Photos, Ka Sin Temple, Taipa, Macau The term...
Macau Islamic Mosque and Cemetery
(English: Macau Islamic Mosque and Cemetery, Portuguese: Mesquita e Cemitério de Macau, Traditional: 澳門伊斯蘭清真寺及墳場, Simplified: 澳门伊斯兰清真寺及坟场)Macau, Macau
The Macau Islamic Mosque and Cemetery is a historic landmark built sometime in the early 1980’s. It is the only mosque and Muslim cemetery in the country, making it a vital foundation for the Muslim community...
The Pou Tai Un Temple is a stunning Buddhist temple and monastery in Taipa. Aside from being a picturesque destination, it is also the largest temple you can find in Taipa or Coloane. Pou Tai Sin Un, Temple, Buddhist...
St Josephs Seminary and Church
(English: St Josephs Seminary and Church, Portuguese: Igreja e Seminário de São José, Traditional: 聖若瑟修院及聖堂, Simplified: 圣若瑟修院及圣堂)Macau, Macau
St. Joseph’s Seminary and Church is one of Macau’s most fascinating ancient religious sites. The seminary was established in 1728, around the same time as St. Paul’s College; both served as the...
Tou Tei Temple
(English: Tou Tei Temple, Portuguese: Templo de Tou Tei, Traditional: 土地古廟, Simplified: 土地古庙)Macau, Macau
The Tou Tei Temple houses a complex of various places of worship constructed over granite. It’s believed that this area was built in 1789, though restoration was necessary in 2001 and 2004. Tou Tei Temple...
Tin Hau Temple, Taipa
(English: Tin Hau Temple in Taipa, Portuguese: Templo de Tin Hau, Traditional: 氹仔天后古廟, Simplified: 氹仔天后古庙)Macau, Macau
Tin Hau Temple, which translates to Heavenly Empress Temple, is one of the oldest temples in Macau. It was constructed sometime around 1785 and dedicated to the Goddess Tin Hau. Tin Hau Temple, Taipa, History, Relics...
