The Temple of A-Ma was built five centuries ago and is considered to be the oldest in Macau. When the Portuguese sailors first landed on the peninsula and asked the name of the place, the natives replied "A-Ma-Gao" (Bay of A-Ma). And so the peninsula was named Macau.According to legend, A-Ma was an attractive young woman from Fukien province who could calm the stormy sea and protect the fishermen. The temple was built in the very spot where she set foot on land before walking to the crest in nearby Barra Hill and ascending into heaven in glowing halo of light and perfume.
Interesting story!