Ruins of St. Paul's - Macau

This was the highlight of my day trip to Macau. I have seen so many photographs of the old St. Paul's Church, so I had to see it in-person.
The church was built by the Jesuits during the 16th century, but a fire resulting from a typhoon destroyed the building in 1835. All that stands since then through today is its facade.
In 2005, it was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here is a link to a drawing of how the area looked in 1854 after the church was already destroyed.

According to Wikipedia, the intricate carvings on the wall were done by Japanese Christians in exile from their homeland as well as local craftsmen.

From the top of the stairs, this is the view you see. The tall structure on the left is the Grand Lisboa hotel and casino I mentioned in my previous post.

Instead of climbing the stairs and dodging the crowds that lead to the ruins, you can hike the steady sloped street on the side.

From the side, you get a different perspective.

I have often wondered what was behind the wall.
The stairs and balcony are modern additions to the wall for visitors look out of the openings. I am glad they are not noticeable from the front to hinder its beauty.

While on the balcony, previous visitors had left coins at each of the openings. I wonder why...
I think there is even a sign that says leaving or throwing objects is prohibited.

A worker stands on the balcony probably watching out for such violators.
By the way, the stairway leading to the balcony and the balcony itself are made of metal grates. This means you can see directly below you through the gaps which can be a little scary at first.

Turning around with the wall behind me, I can see the rest of the city plus the Museum of Macau directly in front.

As I depart the area in the afternoon, even more visitors have arrived.
There is someone taking her graduation picture with her mom on the left, a "panda" promoting his restaurant on the right, and a tour group on the stairs taking their group photo.

- Karen