Macau played a key role in East-West trade long before the British established a base in Hong Kong. As a result, the city, which was administered by Portugal for more than four centuries, is dotted with relics from bygone eras.
Constructed between 1617 and 1626 to defend the city, the 10,000-square-metre Monte Fort, or Fortaleza do Monte, housed barracks and was equipped with cannons and enough supplies to withstand a two-year siege. A museum was constructed within the fort in the twilight years of Portuguese rule.