Moorish Barracks Macau
A brightly painted 1874 structure showcasing unique neoclassical and Mughal-inspired architecture, once housing an Indian regiment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Moorish Barracks Macau
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A brightly painted 1874 structure showcasing unique neoclassical and Mughal-inspired architecture, once housing an Indian regiment.
"A visually stunning landmark with a fascinating blend of architectural styles and historical depth."
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The vibrant colors and unique architecture make it a photographer's dream.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds and nearby Barra Hill.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neoclassical Mughal Architecture
Admire the unique blend of European neoclassical and Indian Mughal architectural styles.
Historic Indian Regiment Quarters
Learn about its history as accommodation for an Indian regiment from Goa.
Vibrant Exterior Colors
The brightly painted brick and stone structure offers a picturesque backdrop.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Getting There
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The vibrant colors and unique architecture make it a photographer's dream.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds and nearby Barra Hill.
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Generally open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but always good to confirm.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The vibrant colors and unique architecture make it a photographer's dream.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds and nearby Barra Hill.
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Generally open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but always good to confirm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Moorish Barracks for its striking and unique architecture, a beautiful blend of neoclassical and Mughal styles. Its vibrant colors and historical significance as former Indian regiment quarters are frequently highlighted as major draws. It's considered a picturesque and easily accessible cultural site in Macau.
"The Moorish Barracks is a historic landmark in old Macau. It did not house Moorish soldiers but housed a garrison of soldiers from India. The superstructure stands in contrast with the more contemporary apartment buildings adjacent to and surrounding it. The facade is painted yellow and has and ornate tower."
James Zaworski
"The Moorish Barracks is one of the UNESCO World Heritage attractions in the Historic Centre of Macau. However, it is one of the member sites that is not normally open to the public. During most Chinese New Year (CNY) Day (Jan-Feb), the 238-metre dragon parades its way through the Historic Centre of Macau, making stops at specific landmark buildings, including the Moorish Barracks for a few minutes, allowing visitors some great photograph opportunities.
The dragon passes by the Moorish Barracks after calling upon at St. Lawrence Church. it stops here briefly before continuing onward to Barra Square. If you are following the dragon through the Historic City Centre, be ready to move with the crowd of photographers after each picture as the dragon moves surprisingly quick for its size.
Note: If we have a sunny day, it can be difficult difficult to take picture of the dragon as it pauses and curls in front of the Moorish Barracks as the sun is directly in front of you.
If this is the case, simply move down the street a bit and change your angle. If you go past the barracks, you can take pictures as the dragon passes by, this is probably the best photography angle on sunny days."
Brad
"Beautiful exotic building belonging to the Port Authority.
The building uses a mogol style in the façade and has neo-classical spacial structure inside, in a typical revivalist solution of the 19c. The use of military corps from different parts of the empire was a fashion of the times, for the sake of imperial showoff (the British used Punjabi corps as they don't drink nor smoke, making them a safe asset to have near gunpowder).
The original purpose of the building, in 1874, was to function as barracks for a goan military corps. In 1905 it becomes the headquarters of the Port Authority.
The outer arcade is free of access, but the inside of the building is accessible only if an exhibition is showing, and even so only within the exhibition area."
João Xavier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Moorish Barracks is located on Barra Hill and is easily accessible by public bus routes that serve the Senado Square and A-Ma Temple areas. Taxis are also readily available.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the barracks, several public parking lots are available within a short walking distance in the surrounding city center.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from nearby attractions like the A-Ma Temple and the historic center of Macau, especially if you enjoy exploring on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Moorish Barracks is generally free, making it an accessible cultural site for all visitors.
The Moorish Barracks is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or special closures.
While the exterior is accessible, some interior areas or pathways might present challenges. It's advisable to inquire locally about specific accessibility details.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire facade, with its vibrant colors and unique architectural details, is highly photogenic. The courtyard area also offers great perspectives.
Photography is generally permitted in most public areas of the Moorish Barracks, but it's always wise to be mindful of any posted restrictions, especially in any exhibition spaces.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most flattering illumination for capturing the building's colors and architectural features without harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific play areas, the site is easily accessible and can be combined with visits to nearby attractions like the A-Ma Temple, creating a well-rounded family outing. Encourage kids to spot the different architectural details and imagine the soldiers who once lived there.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early morning or late afternoon to capture the best light. The surrounding area also provides opportunities for wider shots that contextualize the barracks within the Barra Hill landscape. Don't forget to explore different angles to find unique perspectives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
+1This unique architectural style was a deliberate choice to accommodate an Indian regiment from Goa who were stationed in Macau to reinforce the local police force. The building served not only as barracks but also as a symbol of the international connections and military presence in the Portuguese colony. Its preservation highlights Macau's commitment to safeguarding its tangible cultural heritage.
Historical Context and Purpose
The building's location on Barra Hill also provided a strategic vantage point. Its existence underscores the multicultural interactions that characterized Macau's colonial past, where people from various backgrounds lived and worked together. Today, it serves as a reminder of this rich history and is recognized as a tangible piece of Macau's cultural heritage.
+1
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