A-Ma Temple, Buddhist temple in Macau, China
Built across several levels of a hillside, A-Ma Temple contains six interconnected pavilions featuring traditional Chinese architectural elements, stone carvings, and decorative statues.
The temple, established in 1488, stands as the oldest religious structure in Macau and became a key element of the Historic Centre, earning UNESCO World Heritage recognition.
The complex serves as a principal site of worship for followers of Ma Zu, the Chinese sea goddess, with rituals performed daily by local Buddhist and Taoist practitioners.
Located at Barra Square near the Inner Harbor, the temple welcomes visitors from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, with free admission and guided tours in multiple languages.
Three notable rocks within the temple grounds - shaped like a boat, a sea monster, and a toad - inspired numerous poems from Chinese scholars through centuries.
Location: Macau
Inception: 1488
Part of: Historic Centre of Macau
GPS coordinates: 22.18611,113.53114
Latest update: May 27, 2025 13:17
Macau captivates with its contrasts. In a single day, you can go from a Portuguese quarter with cobblestone streets to a hidden temple behind a staircase, and then to a futuristic hotel lit up like a film set. The city combines baroque facades, grand casinos, and quiet gardens where a few tai chi practitioners are seen. Between Coloane and Cotai, each district offers a different vibe that attracts travelers looking for striking photos and unique urban scenes. This selection features the most photogenic sites in Macau, from colonial heritage to coastal views.
Grand Lisboa
1.3 km
Macau Tower
912 m
Historic Centre of Macau
740 m
Senado Square
1.2 km
Mandarin's House
429 m
Leal Senado Building
1.2 km
St Lawrence's Church
754 m
Macau Government Headquarters
808 m
Our Lady of Penha Chapel
423 m
Sir Robert Ho Tung Library
987 m
Dom Pedro V Theatre
973 m
Santa Casa da Misericórdia
1.3 km
Moorish Barracks
206 m
Macau Maritime Museum
60 m
Sam Kai Vui Kun
1.2 km
Bank of China Building, Macau
1.3 km
Former Court Building
1.1 km
Macau Government House
337 m
Heritage Exhibition of a Traditional Pawnshop Business
1.2 km
Macau Legislative Assembly Building
961 m
Edifício Rainha D. Leonor
1.2 km
MJ Gallery at Ponte 16
1.3 km
Macau General Post Office
1.2 km
Fort São Tiago da Barra
405 m
Macau Museum of Souvenir
118 m
Núcleo Museológico da Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Macau
1.3 km
Court of Final Appeal and Court of Second Instance building
1.1 km
Penha Hill
371 mReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes