A-MA TEMPLE

The A-Ma temple, dedicated to the sea goddess A-Ma (also called Tin Hau in Cantonese), is Macau's oldest temple. Its construction dates back to 1488, well before the arrival of the Portuguese in 1554. Legend has it that a junk from Fujian province was caught in a terrible storm. Just as all seemed lost, a mysterious young woman, who had come aboard at the last minute, commanded the elements to calm down. The sea immediately calmed and the ship arrived safely in Macao. The young woman disappeared over the hill in a halo of light, and in her honor, the A-Ma temple was built on the spot where she landed.

The temple, perched on the hillside, comprises several prayer pavilions and gardens dedicated to various deities, including A-Ma and Kun Iam. It embodies a rich fusion of Chinese beliefs, blending Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and folk traditions. This blend makes the A-Ma Temple unique in Macau, with each pavilion reflecting a different era. For example, the Hall of Benevolence, near the entrance, is one of the oldest structures, dating back to 1488. Higher up, winding paths lead to Buddhist pavilions and rocks engraved with poems invoking deities. From the top of the hill, it's easy to imagine the natives watching the Portuguese ships arrive in the distance... Incidentally, the temple is also linked to the origin of the town's name! When the Portuguese landed in the ^16th century, they asked the locals for the name of the place. The locals, not understanding the question, replied with Ma Kok (媽閣), the name of the temple in Cantonese. The Portuguese distorted this name to "Macau", giving the city its name.

Ceremonies are held at the temple throughout the year, including the A-Ma festival, celebrated in April or May according to the lunar calendar. During these festivities, firecrackers are often set off to welcome visitors and ward off evil spirits. The A-Ma temple remains a popular place of pilgrimage, particularly during the Chinese New Year, when devotees flock to the temple to make vows. The faithful burn incense, make offerings and pray for their children's prosperity or academic success. Visitors can also try the traditional practice of drawing a divining stick to find out their future.

The A-Ma temple, with its architecture, history and cultural significance, is a must-see to discover the essence of Macau.