Guia Fortress is located atop the Guia Hill, the highest point on the Macau Peninsula, built between 1637 and 1638, including a sentry house and a lighthouse. Ascending the spiral staircase to the top of the tower allows for a panoramic view of the entire Macau Peninsula and the ‘Historic Centre of Macau’, with the beautiful scenery laid out before one’s eyes. Adjacent to the lighthouse stands the Chapel of Our Lady of Snows. Originally used for defense against foreign invasions and as an observation post, the Guia Fortress was long classified as a military restricted area. It was only in 1976 that the fortress was opened to tourists and has since remained well-preserved in its original state. Due to the strategic military importance of the area surrounding the Guia Fortress, numerous air-raid shelters were constructed underground. Since 2003, these previously sealed shelters have been extensively renovated and transformed into the ‘Penha Air-raid Shelter Exhibition Gallery’. Guia Lighthouse, built in 1865, stands at a height of 13 meters, with white walls and a red roof, exuding a sense of grandeur and strength. In September 1874, the lighthouse suffered damage due to a storm and was subsequently repaired and reactivated on June 29, 1910, where it continues to function to this day. On clear nights, the lighthouse’s beam can be seen within a 20-mile radius around Macau. Near the lighthouse, one can also observe the typhoon signal markers. During typhoons, the meteorological bureau hangs the corresponding typhoon signal markers on the fortress to alert citizens to prepare. Opening hours are from 10:00 to 17:00 all year round. A must-see tip: Photography is not allowed inside the Chapel of Our Lady of Snows.
