Guan Yin Statue

If you want to go to Lisbon, Las Vegas and China simultaneously, visit Macau. But, besides its multinational appearance, Macau has some traditional and cultural aspects that are not to be missed by visitors. The Guan Yin Statue is one such attraction, located outside the harbor. An imposing bronze figure measuring 20 meters in height, the Guan Yin Statue stands on a 7 meter high lotus, with a religious information center located immediately below. The overall site is better known as the Kun Iam Ecumenical Center. Interestingly, this Guan Yin Statue is the only such statue built facing the opposite direction of the sea.



Guan Yin is a traditional goddess and is not specific to a single religion, but is part of different faiths, including Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Rising high upon a lotus flower-shaped pedestal, the Guan Yin Statue was created in parts in Nanjing and transported for assembly on site. Believed to be the Goddess of Mercy, the statue was inaugurated by the Portuguese president Jorge Sampaio during the colonial era. It was designed by famed Portuguese artist Cristina Rocha Leiria.



The Kun Iam Ecumenical Center is very educational and entertaining for those with an interest in all things cultural. Divided into two levels as the Polyvalent Room and Contemplation Room. Souvenirs and memorabilia are available on the first level and the second level Contemplation Room is capable of providing space for 50 people for engage in mini activities. The center is also often used for conferences, exhibitions and movie screenings.



The Guan Yin Statue doesn't warrant a special visit to the site; you can take in the site within an hour or so and visiting it while you are between other attractions is a wise option. Most visitors are tourists and students. The Guan Yin Statue is located on a man-made island attached to the mainland by a causeway.



Macau has much to offer visitors with its varied history, wide cultural aspects and rich modern features. You can choose a Macau hotel from a range of different accommodation facilities available in the city. Try the Venetian Macau Resort Hotel for an incredible hotel-stay experience.