Macau attractions

Macau has a rich heritage from both its Chinese and Portuguese past that includes many outstanding examples of western and oriental art and culture. Here you will find Chinese temples, catholic churches; ancient forts and other historical relics within a modern environment that bear testimony to a cultural blend of east and west.
Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, a main downtown thoroughfare in the southwestern part of the city, is called San Ma Lo (New Street) in Chinese by its residents. It stretches from Avenida da Praia Grande to the Inner Harbour, a distance of less than a mile. With the main square, Largo do Senado and several affiliated streets, this area is the most popular shopping and tourist part of the city.
This splendid square, Largo do Senado, with its wave-patterned pavement and central fountain is a highlight of the area. The surrounding simple, elegant Portuguese and baroque style buildings house many international branded clothes shops and restaurants. An exploration of the narrow alleyways that radiate from the square will open up to the visitor yet more fantastic places including curio markets, pharmacies, snack stalls and jewelry shops selling dazzling items.
The Monte Fort, one of the best-preserved forts in Macau can be seen from the main square and the Ruins of St. Paul's, standing close to the Fort, is a local landmark. A walk northward along St. Paul's Street leads to the façade of St. Paul's Church, which was devastated by fire in 1835, with its elegant reliefs that illustrate Bible stories. An underground tomb behind the ruins houses the remains of Catholic martyrs. The Museum of Macau, to the right of the ruins, should not be missed as it has an excellent exhibition of items telling much of the history of the city.
Northwest of the St. Paul's Ruin, is Camoes Garden and Grotto, a memorial garden dedicated to Louis de Camoes, a famous Portuguese poet who lived four hundred years ago. It is a garden residence with a blend of both Chinese and Western architectural styles and has become a popular social meeting place for residents.