Temples, picturesque gardens and quiet alleyways provide a glimpse of historic Macau
A walk through Macau's historic St Lazarus district is like a short course in Sino-Western history. Kun Iam Tong is a good place to start. The temple, at No 2 Avenida do Coronel Mesquita, which is also known as Pou Chai Sim Iun, dates back to the 13th century. The structure was built during the Ming dynasty in 1627.
A walk through Macau's historic St Lazarus district is like a short course in Sino-Western history.
Kun Iam Tong is a good place to start. The temple, at No 2 Avenida do Coronel Mesquita, which is also known as Pou Chai Sim Iun, dates back to the 13th century. The structure was built during the Ming dynasty in 1627.
One of Macau's most important Buddhist temples is historically significant for two reasons. Marco Polo is said to have studied Buddhism there and the first treaty between China and the United States was signed at a stone table in one of the temple's gardens in 1844.
Dedicated to Kun Iam, or Guan Yin, the goddess of mercy, the temple complex comprises three key shrines and several smaller shrines as well as gardens, which include terraced gardens at the temple's rear. Kun Iam Hall is the temple's most important feature. There is a statue of Kun Iam flanked by 18 Buddhas.
From the temple, walk southeast along Avenida do Coronel Mesquita and turn right on Avenida de Sidónio Pais. Continue until you see a European style garden on your right. Named Flora Garden, it was once part of a prominent Portuguese woman's estate.
