Macau Peninsula- An Insight Into Macaus Portuguese Heritage
The Macau Special Administrative region is situated facing the South China Sea on the western side of the Pearl River Delta
. It was Chinas first and last colony, being occupied by the Portuguese from the early 16th century up until December of 1999 when it was handed back to China.However, like Hong Kong, Macau affords a high degree of autonomy up until 2049. Thus, apart from national defence, Macau has its own currency and legal system. It is a popular hub for industries such as electronics, toys and textiles. Recently though this picturesque region has undergone a transformation becoming a popular tourist destination.
It has lately become known as the Las Vegas of the east due to the rapid development of large-scale gambling hotels and resorts. Macau is also popular for its Portuguese heritage and is a prime example of colonial architecture.
The neighbouring Macau peninsula is the oldest region within Macau and where one would find the highest concentration of residents. The peninsula is connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. At the northern point of the isthmus is the former Portuguese border gate, this doorway to the mainland has been recently restored and can be seen in front of the modern border gate checkpoint building that leads into China. The ancient border gate is reminiscent of ancient Portuguese design and stands out among its more modern counterparts.
Walking through the Macau peninsula guests will feel as if they have been transported back to ancient times thanks to the diverse array of ancient buildings that are still functioning today. There is an interesting blend of both traditional Chinese and ancient Portuguese attractions to explore on the small but vibrant island.
Situated on the south west tip of the Macau peninsula is the A-Ma Temple. One of the oldest and most popular religious structures in Macau, it was constructed in 1488 and is dedicated to the goddess Matsu, the saviour of seafarers. A prime example of traditional oriental architecture, the temple is well documented in ancient Chinese texts and paintings.
In 1871 in an attempt to help bolster policing efforts on the colony, the Portuguese decided to bring in an Indian army regiment from their colony in Goa. Hence the Moorish barracks were born as a place for the regiment to live in. The external structure is built to a Neo classical style combined with Moorish cues to give it a unique style all its own. The complex has specious verandas and rooms with Moorish arches along the borders. The building compliments western style yet is ideally functional for the local climate thanks to the open air concept.
The Luis de Camoes Garden, named after the prominent Portuguese poet Luis de Camoes who is said to have resided within the grotto of the gardens and written the famous epic Os Lusiadas. Visitors walking along the gardens will discover lush greenery, manicured lawns, colourful bushes and thriving local fauna. Touring the garden early morning allows visitors to observe the tranquil practice of Tai Chi by the local residents on the lawns.
The Dom Pedro V theatre was built in 1860 and was home to small plays and musicals, it was left disused for twenty years until it was renovated and brought back to life as a modern theatre in 1993. The neo classical theatre is a prime example of Portuguese architecture and is home to small plays and productions that are sure to entertain visitors.
The Macau Peninsula is just one the many cultural and fun filled destinations within the historic enclave of Macau to visit. For visitors looking for accommodation, there is many a luxury resort Macau to choose from, but none offer quite the experience that The Venetian Macau Resort Hotel has to offer. This luxury 5 star hotel Macau is one of the largest in the enclave and boasts a comprehensive array of the services and amenities wrapped up in a dazzling and fun filled experience for everyone.
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