A-Ma Temple

The next position on the list of the most beautiful historical sites in Macau is the A-Ma temple. In So Lourenço, Macau, China, there is a shrine dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu called the A-Ma Temple. One of Macau's oldest temples, built-in 1488, is assumed to be the settlement's namesake.

It was believed that the name of the temple was the source of the name Macau. According to legend, the locals responded Maa-gok or A-maa-gok when the Portuguese sailors inquired about the location after arriving at the coast near the temple. Later, the Portuguese gave the peninsula the name "Macau." The temple was well described in ancient Chinese writings and depicted in Macao-related paintings. It is also among the earliest Macao scenes to be captured on camera.

Every year, on the days of Mazu's birthday and the Chinese New Year, a large number of male and female devotees congregate here. They burn a lot of incense to offer homage and make good luck wishes. The temple was included in the Historic Centre of Macau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in 2005.

Location: São Lourenço, Macau, China