“Whoever drinks Lilau water no longer forgets Macau.” This saying echoes through the streets of S\u00e3o Louren\u00e7o. Welcome to S\u00e3o Louren\u00e7o a civil parish in Macau. It sits on the southwestern part of the Macau Peninsula. S\u00e3o Louren\u00e7o is also known as Saint Lawrence.
Once, S\u00e3o Louren\u00e7o was one of five parishes. These belonged to the former Municipality of Macau. The municipality was abolished in 2001. But the parishes remain nominally.
Imagine this area surrounded by water on nearly all sides. Only the north and southeast connect to other areas. It neighbors Freguesia da S\u00e9. Penha Hill and Barra Hill rise to the south.
The Portuguese governor’s building stands here. Today, it houses administrative offices. Luxurious villas dot the hillsides. S\u00e3o Louren\u00e7o covers about 0.9 square kilometers. Its population was around 45,600. That is a density of about 50,904 people per square kilometer.
S\u00e3o Louren\u00e7o offers many sights. The A-Ma Temple stands as the largest and most significant temple in Macau. Chinese fishermen from Fujian built it in the 15th and 16th centuries. It honors the Goddess A-Ma. Macau’s name comes from this goddess. The temple includes several pavilions each dedicated to a different deity.
Nearby, visit the Old Pier Bridge at Largo do Pagode da Barra. Its design reflects the historical link between Macau and Goa. As you ascend Cal\u00e7ada da Barra behold the Moorish Barracks. This neoclassical structure shows Mughal influences.
Continue along Rua da Barra to the Mandarin’s House. This house blends Guangdong traditions. It also incorporates Western architectural elements.
Across from the Mandarin’s House find Lilau Square. The saying about Lilau water highlights its significance. The Portuguese built one of their first residential areas here. It features a Mediterranean atmosphere with Art Deco touches.
Finally, visit St. Lawrence’s Church on Rua do Padre Ant\u00f3nio. Jesuits originally built it from wood in 1560. It was rebuilt using stone in the early 19th century. The church is shaped like a Latin cross. Stained glass windows adorn the space. Ornamental columns and chandeliers add to its elegance.
Before we leave S\u00e3o Louren\u00e7o remember its layers of history. Consider its blend of cultures. And recall the saying about its water. You will not forget Macau.