Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
dynasty calligraphy from Guǎngdōng, ceramic statues from Shíwān (Guǎngdōng) and seal
carvings. The museum also features 19th-century Western historical paintings from all over
Asia, and contemporary Macanese art.
BUILDING
MACAU CULTURAL CENTRE
Hai; 9am-7pm Tue-Sun; 1A, 8, 12, 23)
This US$100-million centre with an area of 45,000 sq metres is the territory's prime venue
for cultural performances. It's beside the wonderful Macau Museum of Art.
Creative Macau
Avenida Xian Xing Hai; 2-7pm Mon-Sat; 1A, 8, 12, 23)
, an art space that runs exhibitions and
poetry readings, is on the ground floor.
TEMPLE
A-MA TEMPLE
A-Ma Temple was probably already standing when the Portuguese arrived, although the
present structure may date from the 16th century. It was here that fisherfolk once came to re-
plenish supplies and pray for fair weather. A-Ma, aka Tin Hau, is the goddess of the sea,
from which the name Macau is derived. It's believed that when the Portuguese asked the
name of the place, they were told 'A-Ma Gau' (A-Ma Bay). In modern Cantonese, 'Macau'
(Ou Mun) means 'gateway of the bay'.
HISTORIC BUILDING
MOORISH BARRACKS
These former barracks (c 1874) were designed by an Italian in a neoclassical style inspired
by Moorish architecture, to accommodate Muslim Indian policemen from Goa. The confu-
sion of Muslims with Moors was due to the fact that dated Cantonese refers to Indians as
'moh loh cha' and 'moh loh' is a transliteration of 'Moorish'. You can't enter the building,
now occupied by the Macau Maritime Administration. Turn right as you leave A-Ma
Temple; a 10-minute uphill walk will take you here.
NEIGHBOURHOOD
PENHA HILL
Towering above the colonial villas along Avenida da República is Penha Hill, the most tran-
quil and least-visited area of the peninsula. From here you'll get excellent views of the cent-
