The Camoes Garden and Grotto is renowned as the oldest and biggest public garden in Macau. Also popular as Camoes Garden, this serene and lush haven is spread across an area of 20,000 square metres.
Pathways surrounded by hills, imposing trees, stunning fields of grass which are lightened up by plenty of vibrant flowers have become the gardens most loved attractions. Originally Camoes Garden was the Chairmans home of the British East India Company. After the demise of the Portuguese merchant who was the succeeding owner, the garden was gifted to the government. This was done in memory of the eminent Portuguese poet Luis de Camoes.
Due to a court rule, the poet was exiled from his motherland and was forced to live in Macau for a period of two years. During this time, Luis de Camoes frequently visited the park in order to compose his famous pieces of poetry. For instance, it was at the Camoes Garden that this renowned Portuguese poet, who is even today greatly respected by Macau people, composed the well known epic Os Lusadas or Soul of Portugal. Each year on the 10th of June, Portuguese living in Macau gather to the Camoes Garden in order to celebrate Portugal Day held in remembrance of the great poet.
The most striking sight of the Camoes Garden is the Camoes Grotto which was constructed in 1835. It is built surrounding a bust of Luis de Camoes which was later reconstructed by the government. Inscriptions of Luis de Camoes most popular poems can be seen at the grotto which overlooks an extensive garden that comes with seating areas shaded by large Bunyan trees. At the entrance of the garden, visitors will find a bronze statue named Embrace that signifies the age-old friendship between the Chinese and the Portuguese. The impressive Chinese pavilion with stone stools and tables is popular among chess players. Meanwhile, the Gazebo which is the peak of the Camoes Garden offers visitors with spectacular views of the harbour area.
Its natural beauty, importance in culture and art has made the Camoes Garden and Grotto immensely famous among both local and foreign travellers. Accommodation is easy to find near this unique Macau attraction. If you wish to stay at a luxury hotel Macau then Sands Macau Resort Hotel is an unmatched resort hotel Macau that offers maximum comfort for a memorable stay.
About the Author:
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
