A-Ma temple, Macau Overview

A-Ma Temple located in Sao Lourenco is said to be the oldest temple in Macau. It is dedicated to the Chinese goddess of sea Mazu. It is believed that the name of Macao city is derived from this temple.

One of the three Buddha Halls in Macau, the temple is divided into six main parts while the entrance of A-Ma temple is guarded by two beautiful stone lions. The pillars and walls of the temple are inscribed with ancient Chinese scripts and richly carved drawings. A shrine for various deities like Mazu and Buddha, A-Ma temple is an impeccable example of a blend of various cultures like Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and folk beliefs. Hundreds of pilgrims visit A-Ma Temple every year on Mazu’s birthday and Chinese New Year and grand celebrations take place.

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Legend of A-Ma Temple

A-Ma Temple was established long before the city was named Macau. Portuguese sailors landed on the coast of a village, now called Macau, around 400 years ago. They asked the local inhabitants the name of the place but the locals misinterpreted, thinking the Portuguese were asking the name of the temple and said “Ma Ge". The Portuguese people later translated Ma Ge to Macau and used it to refer to the city. This was how the name “Macau” came into existence.

A-Ma Temple Architecture

A-Ma temple is a blend of Confucian, Tao, Buddhist architecture.
The temple’s roof ridges are delicately carved with realistic ceramic animals and beautiful ornaments under the eaves.
The granite structure with high gabled wall makes the temple fireproof.
A-Ma Temple is adorned with six hallways The Memorial Arch, Gate Pavilion, Hall of Benevolence, The Prayer Hall, Hall of Guanyin and Zhengjiao Chanlin each belonging to different times throughout history.
Hall of Benevolence is the oldest structure of A-Ma temple built in 1488 during the Ming Dynasty.

How to Reach A-Ma Temple

A-Ma Temple is located on the Pehua hill, Sao Lourenco, Macau.

Bus: Buses operating to the temple are 1, 2, 6B, 10A, 10, 11, 18, 21A, 26, 28B, 55, MT4, N3, 5, 9, and 18B.

Taxi: For a more comfortable mode of travelling taxis and private cabs are available. The temple is at a walking distance from the Senado Square which is situated at a distance of 2 km from the temple. The Macau International Airport is located at a distance of 8.5 km from A-Ma Temple.