Macau's A-Ma Temple | The Timeless Legend of a Coastal Shrine

Hey everyone 🙌, if you're visiting Macau, you absolutely must check out the historic A-Ma Temple!

Located on the southwestern side of the Macau Peninsula, this is the oldest temple in Macau and ranks as the foremost of the three ancient shrines. It is also the origin of Macau's English name "Macao." Legend has it that when Portuguese sailors asked the locals the name of the place, they replied "Ma Kok" (A-Ma Temple), which led to the name "Macao."

Built facing the sea and nestled against the hills, the temple was first constructed in the first year of the Hongzhi era during the Ming Dynasty (1488), making it over 500 years old. Key structures within the temple include the Hongren Hall, the Main Hall, Zhengjue Zen Hall, and Guanyin Pavilion. Despite being only three square meters, the Hongren Hall was the first stone hall completed. The Main Hall, also known as "The First Hall of the Sacred Mountain," is grand and solemn. The Zhengjue Zen Hall is the largest in scale, while the Guanyin Pavilion is dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy.

The temple retains many Lingnan architectural features, such as "wok ear houses," and rare glazed green tiles. The stone carvings along the staircases feature poems and inscriptions from officials of various eras. The "Li She Da Chuan" (Smooth Sailing Across Great Waters) inscription on the Yangchuan Stone symbolizes safety and prosperity.

Every year during Chinese New Year and on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, which marks the birthday of A-Ma, the temple is bustling with worshippers. Step into A-Ma Temple to experience the charm of history intertwined with faith, and immerse yourself in its unique tranquility and solemnity.

Post by Genlyddy | Apr 24, 2025