Built between 1622 and 1638, Guia Fortress is built on the highest point of the peninsula, offering panoramic views of the city. However, this fortress is much more than a lookout for the modern tourist, as it was once maritime and military centre of Macau for the Portuguese army, holding a critical position as the fortress, together with Mount Fortress, was invaluable in fending off the Dutch Invasion of 1622.
On top of the fortress stands Guia Lighthouse, dating back from 1865, was the first modern lighthouse in China and is the exact position where Macau takes its coordinates; As well as Guia Chapel, which was established by Clarist nuns and displays elaborate frescoes of religious and mythological themes with both Chinese and Portuguese elements.
Below the fortress lies 3 sets of simple military tunnels built in the 1930s which have been used by the Portuguese army to form an important defensive network and store cannon emplacements against possible foreign invasion.
As we left the Guia Fortress, we walked by some creatively manicured greenery as well as modern pillboxes built by the Portuguese army, which transformed the area around the Guia Fortress into what is now a beautiful public park with historical relics for the residents to enjoy. We took the Guia Cable Car back down which allowed us to enjoy more panoramic views of Macau as we left the fortress.
The Guia Fortress gives an opportunity for tourists and locals alike to escape from bustling Macau and to revisit Macau’s rich history as a strategic Portuguese military centre, or just to enjoy some fresh air.
Guangzhou-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area 