Kun Iam Temple, Macau

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Temple of the Goddess of Mercy

Kun Iam Temple, also called Kun Iam Tong, Kun Iam Tchai, or the Temple of the Goddess of Mercy, is located at Avenida do Coronel Mesquita, Macau. This is one of the oldest, biggest and wealthiest temples in Macau. It was founded in the 13th century, with the present structure dating back to 1627. Visitors to the Kun Iam Tong can admire its open courtyards and ornately embellished halls, dedicated to the Precious Buddhas, the Buddha of Longevity or Kun Iam. The deity is dressed in embroiled silk and her clothing is changed every year. Flanking the Kun Iam are eighteen Buddha statues. Adjoining rooms hold funeral chapels and scrolls honouring Kun Iam.

There is a terraced garden behind the temple. A stela commemorates the signing of the first Sino-American treaty on 3 July 1844, between Ki Ying, the Viceroy of Canton, and Caleb Cushing, the United States minister. Close by is a marble statue of a monk. There are four old banyan trees here. Their branches seem to intertwine. They are called the Lovers Trees and are a symbol of marital fidelity.

On other parts of the Kun Iam Tong garden, one finds fountains, groves of bamboo and smaller shrines in honour of departed priests. The feast day of Kun Iam is celebrated on the 19th day of the second, sixth, ninth and 11th moons.