Overview
Camoes Garden, also known as White Dove Nest Park, is one of Macau's oldest and most historically significant public parks. Originally an 18th-century garden villa belonging to Portuguese merchant Manuel Pereira, it features a rich blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultural heritage, serene landscapes, and notable monuments.
Key Information
- Location: Camoes Square, Macau
- Area: Approximately 26,063 square meters
- Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00–00:00
- Admission: Free
- Contact: +853 2833 7676
- Transport: Public Bus Information Station
Facilities
- Library
- Children's playground
- Fitness equipment
- Public toilets
- Drinking fountains
- White Dove Nest Nursery
Historical & Cultural Highlights
- Origin: Built in the mid-18th century as the garden villa of Portuguese merchant Manuel Pereira.
- Name: The park's name, 'White Dove Nest', comes from former owner Marques, who kept many white pigeons on the property.
- Camoes Grotto: A stone cave where the Portuguese poet Luís de Camões is said to have written part of his epic poem Os Lusíadas.
- Camoes Statue: A bronze bust of the poet, created by M.M. Bordalo Pinheiro in 1866, housed within a three-rock cave. The pedestal features inscriptions from Os Lusíadas.
- Observatory: Built in 1787 by French explorer Count de la Pérouse for astronomical research.
- Art & Sculptures: Features the sculpture 'Embrace' by Irene Vilar (1996) and Portuguese calçada pavement depicting scenes from Os Lusíadas.
- St. Andrew Kim Taegon Statue: A statue gifted by the Korean Diocese in 1986, commemorating the first Korean martyr who studied in Macau.
- Artificial Waterfall: Located in the northern part of the park.
Natural Environment
- Historic Nursery: Once served as a plant nursery for the British East India Company.
- Ancient Trees: Home to a diverse collection of old trees, including False Bodhi Tree, Litsea, Rose Apple, and the first Breadfruit tree planted in Macau.
Camoes Garden is a peaceful oasis of historical significance and natural beauty, making it a must-visit attraction in Macau.
