The name “Macau” loosely means “Gateway” or “Door.” And a perfect name that is: Macau history shows that its role has been exactly that, a gateway between East and West. The settlement of Macao by Portuguese navigators in the mid-16th century empowered nearly five centuries of cultural and economic exchange between Europe and Asia. Today, Macau remains a gateway, encouraging development by granting business licenses to western casino financiers, bringing Las Vegas into the mix. Whether you look at Macau’s architecture, its food, or its music, Macau culture is all about fusion. Old and new stand together, east and western influences mixed. To appreciate this, take a stroll through the historic center of Macao. Many Macau attractions can be seen in this richly condensed area. The A-Ma Temple is located on the southwestern tip of the Macao Peninsula, overlooking Barra Square and the seashore. Around the corner on Barra Street are the imposing Moorish Barracks. Further up the hill, the path opens to Lilau Square, the first residential area of the Portuguese settlers. There you can see the Mandarin’s House peeking from behind the pastel facades. Exploring Prata Street can be a religious experience, given that one can see St. Lawrence’s Church and St. Joseph’s Seminary, and climb up the hill to St. Augustine’s Square. It is surrounded by a cluster of landmarks – St. Augustine’s Church, Sir Robert Ho Tung Library and the still active Dom Pedro V Theatre. Moving down the shopping street Almeida Ribeiro Avenue, one reaches the beautiful wavy-tiled Senado Square, where cafes and coffee shops provide welcome rest. Ascending from the base of this urban piazza along Palha Street, the bluestone cobbled road leads to the grand façade of the Ruins of St. Paul’s, with Mount Fortress to the side of it. Behind the majestic front is tucked the Na Tcha Temple. Along the skyline of the peninsula, on the highest hill in Macao, one can see the Guia Fort and Lighthouse, accessible by daily cable car rides. Macau attractions are not limited to the historical. This gateway from East to West also actively embraces fusing the past with the future. The newest of Macau attractions, Fisherman’s Wharf, is a vast themed park, divided into different port towns. One can escape to Cape Town, Amsterdam or the Italian Riviera in the same evening. The kids will love the active volcano, children’s fort, and Roman amphitheater. The Dynasty Wharf section replicates the time of the Tang Dynasty, offering tranquil Chinese kiosks and tea parlors. Ultra modern, and dominating the Macao skyline, is the Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Center, which really does have a little bit of everything. For a thrill you can whisk to the top in a glass elevator, enjoying the observation deck, with its breathtaking views and outdoor café. Walk the hair-raising AJ Hackett Skywalk 216 meters above Macao, or enjoy a 70-meter Flying Fox cable ride. Inside, a 500-seat theater offers everything from full-scale productions to the latest hit movies. Kids will love the bungee trampoline, and the hand-painted carousel. A giant Carvel ship replica shows a slice of life, pirate style, as well. Everyone will enjoy the 360 Café, the revolving restaurant. For a beautiful mixture of modern technology with old stately elegance, don’t forget to see a Cybernetic Fountain laser and music show, on the waterfront near the palace. And for the ultimate fusion experience offered by Macau culture, visit Rua da Cunha (Food Street) on Taipa Island. There are many more adventures to be had, especially casinos to play in! Journey through this fascinating international gateway, and enjoy your visit. |
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