Chapel of the Rose

Chapel of the Rose

The official name of the Chapel of the Rose is the Chapel of Our Lady of the Rosary and St. Dominic Church, managed by the Catholic Diocese of Macau. Located in the city center of Macau, it was built in 1587 and has a history of over 400 years.

The façade of the Chapel of the Rose is approximately 24 meters high overall, with a symmetrical form and a classical composition where horizontal lines dominate, while vertical lines are intermittently achieved through different column orders. From bottom to top, the ground level features Ionic columns, the second and third levels feature Corinthian columns, and the top is adorned with a triangular pediment, reflecting a progression from simplicity to complexity. The center of the third level displays the emblem of the Order of Preachers. The wall color is primarily yellow, outlined in white, with an overall simple form and a rigorous structural logic. The roof is a double-pitched roof with a wooden frame and tiled covering.

The main body of the church is constructed of brick and wood, with a wooden floor for the mezzanine. The interior columns are square brick pillars with plaster finishing. The internal floor area is approximately 1,300 square meters. The plan follows a basilica layout, with a central nave and side aisles—the central nave is 8 meters wide, and the side aisles are 3 meters wide; there are also side chapels on both sides, with the sanctuary at the back. The interior has a flat ceiling. The main altar is 8.5 meters deep and 6 meters wide, with the center of the vault painted with the insignia of the religious order; stacked pilasters alternate with twisted spiral columns, and curved moldings highlight the broken pediment, creating an elaborate Baroque style—it is one of the most beautiful altars in Macau.

St. Dominic’s Church

Must-visit reason: One of the most beautiful altars in Macau