Ruins of St. Paul's

Introducing the Ruins of St. Paul's

Located at the Ruins of St. Paul's, on the right side of the Macau Museum and the Fortress of Mount Fortress, the Ruins of St. Paul's is over 350 years old and one of Macau's most recognizable landmarks. It is the remains of the facade of St. Paul's Church. "Sam-pao" is the transliteration of "St. Paul," and because the facade resembles a traditional Chinese memorial archway, it is called the Ruins of St. Paul's.

Although the Ruins of St. Paul's has lost its actual function as a church, it remains closely connected to the lives of Macau residents. Various cultural events are held here from time to time, and the long steps in front of the archway serve as natural seating, instantly transforming the archway into a giant backdrop, a natural stage.

After visiting the archway, you can go to the Catholic Art Museum in the inner square. The museum houses representative paintings and sculptures from Macau's churches and monasteries. The cemetery next door houses the remains of Japanese and Vietnamese martyrs, showcasing Macau's religious history.

Climate and best time to travel

January is the coldest month in Macau, with an average temperature of 14.6℃, but the lowest temperature is still above 5℃. Even in winter, it is warm and comfortable for tourists from the north. Whether you are strolling in the historical old streets or going shopping, autumn and winter are the best times to travel to Macau.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Ruins of St. Paul's

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Ruins of St. Paul's is the remains of a 17th-century Jesuit church in Macau, originally named the Church of St. Paul. It was once the largest church in Asia and is a mix of European and Asian architectural styles. The church was destroyed by fire in 1835, leaving only the grand façade, which remains a symbol of Macau's colonial past and cultural fusion between the East and West.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Ruins of St. Paul's is located in the historic center of Macau. It is easily accessible by foot from Senado Square, which is a central area in Macau. Public buses, taxis, and walking are the best ways to get there. The nearest bus stop is "Ruins of St. Paul's," which is a short walk from the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Ruins of St. Paul's is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and public holidays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entry to the Ruins of St. Paul's is free. However, if you wish to visit the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt, there is a small entrance fee (about MOP 10 to 20). Tickets can be purchased on-site at the museum entrance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is required to visit the Ruins of St. Paul's. However, tickets for the museum can be bought on-site when you arrive.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore the Ruins of St. Paul's in about 30 to 60 minutes. If you plan to visit the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt as well, add an additional 30 to 45 minutes to your visit.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The grand façade of the church ruins, which features intricate carvings and a unique blend of European and Asian architectural styles.
• The Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt, which houses religious artifacts and provides historical context about the church and Macau's religious history.
• The steps leading up to the ruins, providing a great vantage point for photographs.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt. The tours are typically offered in Cantonese and Mandarin, with some availability in English. Audio guides are also available for the museum, primarily in English and Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the steps in front of the ruins offers a great view of the façade, perfect for photos.
• From the lower level, you can capture the full height of the façade and the surrounding streets, which add to the scene's charm.
• The surrounding streets and Senado Square are also excellent for capturing the colonial-era architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking up the steps to the façade and taking in the view. Afterward, explore the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt located next to the ruins to gain a deeper understanding of the site's history. Finish by strolling around the surrounding area, including Senado Square and nearby historical landmarks.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While the Ruins of St. Paul's is not open for night visits, the nearby Senado Square is beautifully lit at night, providing a charming atmosphere. No light shows or special tours are available for the ruins themselves.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Ruins of St. Paul's is a popular tourist destination and can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. The best times to visit for fewer crowds are early mornings on weekdays, or during the off-peak season (fall and winter months).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets and water fountains are available near the entrance. There are food stalls around the area where you can buy snacks and drinks. Rest areas are limited, but there are benches in Senado Square nearby where you can relax.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is accessible to elderly and children, as the steps leading to the ruins are manageable. However, the site does not have full wheelchair access, especially in the museum area. There are some steps within the museum that may not be ideal for visitors with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in the area. Credit cards are also accepted at most restaurants and shops, including the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several restaurants and cafes around Senado Square, offering Portuguese and Macanese cuisine.
• For a quick bite, try the many food stalls in the area selling local snacks like egg tarts and pork chop buns.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at several restaurants around Senado Square. Halal food can be found in some local restaurants, but it’s best to check in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Grand Lapa Macau and Hotel Lisboa are within walking distance from the Ruins of St. Paul's, offering luxury accommodations.
• There are also more affordable options like the Ole London Hotel and The Macau Youth Hostel nearby.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Senado Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is nearby and offers beautiful colonial architecture and shops.
• The A-Ma Temple and Monte Fort are within walking distance and provide further historical insights into Macau’s cultural heritage.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops around Senado Square sell a variety of items, including Portuguese tiles, hand-painted fans, local snacks (like egg tarts), and Chinese herbs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Public buses and taxis are the best ways to continue your trip after visiting the Ruins of St. Paul's. The Macau Ferry Terminal is accessible by taxi or public transport for those heading to Hong Kong or other nearby cities.