Mount Fortress, Macau

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Fortaleza do Monte

Mount Fortress, or Fortaleza do Monte, is located immediately to the east of the so-called Ruins of St Paul's. The fortress was part of the Jesuit complex of St Paul. The fortress was only used once, in 1622, to repel Dutch invasion. It fell into disuse and disrepair when the Jesuits left.

The ramparts of Fortaleza do Monte were made from a mixture of earth, shell, straw and lime. These were packed in layers between strips of wood. From the fortress, you get a very good panoramic view of Macau peninsula. Cannons are still there, positioned as they were, south towards the sea. Today however, they seem to be aimed squarely at the skyscrapers of Macau's central business district.

The locals come to Fortaleza for jogging and also to walk their dogs. At night, the fortress is lit up with bright spotlights, so you can still visit it after dark. From it, you can enjoy great view of Macau at night.

Location within Fortaleza do Monte is the Macau Museum, one of the best museums in the colony.

Getting there

From Largo do Senado, walk towards St Dominic's Church. Turn left and follow signboards pointing towards the Ruins of St Paul. Having reach it, you will find Fortaleza do Monte on a hillock to its right side, with the Macau Museum location within.