Our Lady of the Mount Chapel, also known as the Chapel of Our Lady of the Cliff, is located on the West Bay Hill in Macau, within a fortress on the mountain. It is primarily dedicated to praying to the patron saint of sailors. The buildings adjacent to the chapel once served as the bishop’s residence.
The chapel itself is simple and elegant, with winding mountain paths that have been expanded and reconstructed over time to reach its current size. The church’s design is simple and elegant, looking particularly beautiful in the afternoon sun. The main feature of the church’s architecture is its towering gate tower, with a bell tower on the right side and the bishop’s residence added in 1935 on the left side. The bell tower is solemn and dignified, complemented by flower-lined paths and the shade of ancient trees.
In front of the church lies a vast platform, at the end of which stands a marble statue of the Virgin Mary. The Virgin, with hands clasped in prayer and a gentle face, looks out towards the sea. From here, one can overlook a small part of Macau, including the Macau Tower and the three major bridges, offering an excellent view. Consequently, it is common to encounter locals taking wedding photos or holding wedding ceremonies here.
The chapel is open all year round from 10:00 to 16:00, with the specific operating status subject to the day’s opening conditions.Must-see tips:
1. The uphill road is quite steep, so remember to wear light and comfortable flat shoes for walking. 2. If you are able to visit inside the church, please remember to maintain silence and avoid answering calls.
