subject: Macau Guia Fortress: A Look Into Chinas Colonial Heritage [print this page] Macau is one of two special administration regions that include Hong Kong that resides within China. It was the first and last colony within China. Originally occupied by the Portuguese the small enclave was handed over to China in December of 1999.
Situated on the Pearl River delta, Macau affords a high degree of autonomy from the Chinese mainland in areas such as the legal system and currency.
The small community is a bustling industrial and business centre, home to industries such as electronics, toys and textiles. Recently Macau has become popular as a tourist destination with significant developments over the last few years. It is considered the Las Vegas of the east thanks to its wide choice of opulent gambling resorts and hotels that have sprung up in recent times.
Dazzling, brightly lit resorts are not the only thing that Macau has to offer visitors. Its vibrant past provides many historic, cultural attractions to explore and understand the roots of Macau.
One such establishment is the Guia Fortress. During Macaus time as a Portuguese colony, the Dutch repeatedly tried to conquer it but eventually failed. But they did not depart without leaving their mark on the land in the form of the fortress. It has been registered as an UNESCO World Heritage Site and within the fortress complex lays a chapel, commanders house, barracks and lighthouse.
The fortress was built during 1622-1638 on the highest point in Macau, on a hill for which the complex is named after. The lighthouse built between 1864 and 1865 is considered the first western style lighthouse in East Asia. It stands 91 metres tall with an observation deck atop the light transmitter from which visitors are treated to a panoramic view of Macau and the surrounding coastline.
The chapel was setup by Clarist nuns around the same period as the fortress. The chapel is a prime example of Dutch colonial architecture. Recently discovered were a series of frescoes painted on the inside of the chapel. These works of art perfectly depict both Chinese and Western themes portraying mythological and religious scenes. They are a prime example of Macaus dynamic multicultural dimensions.
Macau is one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in Asia. With a wide variety of modern and historical attractions to visit, there is something for everyone. Visitors will find that there is no short supply of Macau hotels to choose from. In particular The Venetian Macau Resort Hotel is a premiere 5 star hotel Macau that stands out from the competition. One of the largest hotels in Macau albeit the world, boasting 3000 suites, The Venetian Macau Resort Hotel boasts the finest facilities and services ensuring the discerning traveller is well taken care of.
by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe
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