A-Ma Temple, Mazu temple in São Lourenço, Macau, China

A-Ma Temple is a Mazu temple on the southwest slope of Barra Hill in Macau, built in staggered levels rather than on a central axis. Its granite gate pavilion has a central arch, a red vertical band, gold Chinese characters on the lintel and side panels, a green tiled roof with upturned eaves, and two stone guardian lions at the foot of the steps. Behind it are the Memorial Arch and four halls: the Stone Hall (1605), Hongren Hall, Guanyin Pavilion and Zhengjiao Chanlin.

The temple was founded in 1488, making it the oldest religious structure in Macau. Its significance grew as the city developed, and it was later recognized as a central part of the Historic Centre when the site earned UNESCO World Heritage status.

This is a major worship site dedicated to Ma Zu, the sea goddess revered by local fishermen and seafaring communities. Visitors can observe daily prayers and incense offerings that reflect the spiritual connection between the temple and the maritime traditions of the region.

The complex sits near Barra Square by the Inner Harbor and welcomes visitors daily at no cost. The location is easily accessible on foot, especially if approaching from the harbor area.

The temple's three celebrated rocks are the Boat Rock, carved with a 'large-eyed chicken' ship and the words '利涉大川' over 400 years ago; the Sea Awakening Rock, bearing the oldest inscription '海覺' from 1738 and the largest characters '太乙' from 1828; and the Toad Rock, which vanished in 1868 during land reclamation.