Macau Cathedral

Introducing Macau Cathedral

Macau Cathedral, also known as the "Cathedral," is part of Macau's Historic Center. Once a must-visit for every Governor-General upon taking office, it symbolized divine authority. Having undergone numerous renovations and reconstructions over the past 400 years, the magnificent structure, now in its present state, dates back to 1937 and boasts a history of nearly a century.

This gray cement building, rich in Spanish religious traditions, boasts a calming, majestic, and elegant exterior. Its interior is exquisitely decorated, housing numerous Catholic relics and monuments. The church is divided into two main sections, with the main body in the center. Upon entering, one feels a solemn and sacred atmosphere. A wooden Portuguese screen marks the entrance, while the plain walls are decorated with simple ornaments. Tall windows flank either side, each inlaid with stained glass that exudes a sense of religious art. On Sundays, one can attend Mass. In front of the church lies a small plaza paved with black and white Portuguese gravel. A distinctive small fountain creates an elegant and tranquil spot.

Another part of the church is the bell tower on the side. The bell was made in England to commemorate the accession of King Peter V of Portugal. Today, when there are important masses, ceremonies, feasts, and weddings in Macau, the bells in the bell tower will ring to alert local people.

Climate and best time to travel

Macau is surrounded by the sea on three sides and is directly exposed to the sun twice a year. The radiation is strong and the evaporation is vigorous. The climate is characterized by abundant heat, sufficient water vapor, high temperature and heavy rainfall. It has a subtropical marine monsoon climate and also has the characteristics of a tropical climate. The average annual temperature is about 22.3℃, and the temperature difference varies between 11 and 14℃ throughout the year. It is suitable for travel in all seasons, but typhoon season is frequent from July to September, so you need to be careful when traveling.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

We recommend admiring the Macau Cathedral's architectural style and collections. The building, steeped in Spanish religious traditions, boasts a magnificent and pure exterior and exquisitely decorated interiors, housing numerous Catholic relics and artifacts. Famous religious paintings, such as "The Baptism of St. John" and "The Crucifixion of a Japanese Catholic in Nagasaki," are also preserved within the cathedral.

It is recommended to play for 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

7:00-21:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Macau Cathedral

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

The Macau Cathedral, also known as the St. Paul's Cathedral, was originally built in the 16th century by the Jesuits. It is an important symbol of the spread of Christianity in Asia. The cathedral was destroyed by fire in 1835, leaving only its iconic façade intact. It is one of Macau’s most significant historical and architectural landmarks.

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

Macau Cathedral is located in the Historic Centre of Macau, near St. Augustine's Square. It can be reached by walking from other landmarks in the area, such as the Ruins of St. Paul’s. Buses and taxis also service the area, with nearby stops for public transportation.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The cathedral is open daily, with visiting hours typically from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

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

There is no entrance fee to visit the Macau Cathedral. The visit is free for all visitors, and no tickets are required.

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

No advance booking is necessary for visiting the Macau Cathedral, as it is a free public attraction.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour to explore the cathedral, depending on how much time you spend admiring the architecture and taking photos.

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

The highlight of the cathedral is its impressive façade, which features intricate carvings and sculptures. The interior is modest but beautiful, with simple yet elegant design elements that reflect the spiritual significance of the site.

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

Guided tours are available, and audio guides may also be offered in various languages, including English, Mandarin, and Portuguese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spot is the front of the cathedral, where the iconic façade provides a stunning backdrop. Other great shots can be taken from St. Augustine's Square or from the nearby hilltop for panoramic views of the city.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the exterior, then head inside to admire the peaceful interior. Afterward, stroll around the surrounding area, taking in the historical charm of St. Augustine's Square and the nearby streets.

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

Night visits are possible as the cathedral is open until 7:00 PM. However, there are no specific light shows or special tours offered at night.

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

The cathedral can get crowded during the day, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, try visiting early in the morning or during weekdays.

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

There are no major facilities inside the cathedral, but there are nearby cafes, shops, and rest areas in the surrounding historic area where you can relax and enjoy a break.

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

The cathedral is accessible for elderly and children. However, it may not be fully accessible for disabled visitors due to the terrain and steps in the area around the cathedral.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Since the cathedral is free to visit, no payment is required. However, nearby shops and cafes may accept cards or mobile payments, though it’s a good idea to carry cash as well.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several cafes and restaurants near the cathedral, offering local Macanese food and snacks. Popular spots include the Leitaria I Son, famous for its milk-based desserts.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at some nearby restaurants. Halal food options may be limited, but there are some places catering to Muslim diets in Macau.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels close to the Macau Cathedral, including the luxurious Hotel Lisboa and the more budget-friendly Ole London Hotel.

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

Nearby attractions include the Ruins of St. Paul’s, Senado Square, and the Fortaleza do Monte. These can all be visited easily in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops nearby where you can purchase local handicrafts, such as Portuguese-style ceramics, snacks, and postcards.

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

After visiting the cathedral, you can continue your trip by walking to nearby attractions or taking a taxi or public bus to other parts of Macau.