A Thriving Metropolis on Reclaimed Land, Where History Meets Modernity

A Thriving Metropolis on Reclaimed Land

Macao, a captivating region in China, boasts a population exceeding 700,000. This bustling metropolis stands on land reclaimed from the sea, a testament to human ingenuity and determination.

Once a Portuguese colony for centuries, Macao was returned to the People's Republic of China in 1999. During Portuguese rule, gambling was legalized in the 19th century, making it the only place in China where casinos are permitted. This unique status transformed Macao into a gambler's paradise, earning it the nickname "Las Vegas of the East."

Macao's association with gambling is deeply intertwined with the legendary Stanley Ho, the "King of Gambling." For over four decades, Ho held a monopoly on the region's casinos, amassing immense wealth and becoming one of the world's richest men.

Macao's landscape is a fascinating blend of past and present. The region was once two separate islands, Taipa and Coloane, but through a process called infilling, the gap between them was closed, creating a single peninsula. This remarkable feat of engineering transformed Macao into the densely populated region it is today.

With its vibrant mix of architectural styles, Macao is a magnet for tourists. From the neoclassical buildings of the colonial era to the towering skyscrapers and the iconic 47-floor Grand Lisboa Hotel, the city offers a captivating visual feast.

Despite its modern advancements, Macao retains a strong connection to its rich history. The Na Tcha Temple, a folk religion site built in 1888, stands near the Ruins of St. Paul's, a 17th-century Jesuit religious complex destroyed by fire in 1835. These landmarks serve as poignant reminders of Macao's diverse cultural influences.