Historic Centre of Macau

The Historic Centre is an old urban district that mixes Portuguese colonial buildings, Chinese temples, and traditional squares across two separate zones. The streets are narrow and paved, lined with colorful facades and religious structures from both cultures standing side by side.

Portuguese traders settled here in the 16th century and made it their main trading post connecting Europe to East Asia. The settlement remained under Portuguese control until its handover to China at the end of the 20th century.

Churches and temples stand side by side along the streets, showing how Portuguese and Chinese ways of life have lived together for centuries. You can hear temple bells and incense smoke mixed with church bells as you walk through the neighborhoods.

The area is easy to explore on foot, with flat streets and clear paths connecting the main sights. Tourist information centers offer free maps to help you navigate the different zones.

The stone facade of St Paul's Church blends Western religious symbols with Eastern elements like chrysanthemums, Chinese characters, and other decorative designs. This unexpected combination shows how two worlds met in shaping this religious structure.