Lilau Square

Lilau Square is a small paved space under old trees around a spring that was one of Macao's main sources of fresh water, and the area around it was the first part of the settlement where Portuguese residents built houses. A Portuguese saying holds that whoever drinks from the Lilau will never forget Macao and will always return. The fountain still runs, the surrounding houses are painted in ochre and yellow, and the square is quiet.

What you actually see

• The spring - the old water source the square was built around.
• The shaded square - the paved space under mature trees.
• The painted houses - ochre and yellow facades around the edges.
• The residential history - the first quarter where Portuguese residents settled.

When to go

October to December is dry and cool. The square is open at all times. Evenings are quietest.

Honest expectations

The square is very small and fifteen minutes covers it. The spring water is not for drinking despite the saying. There is nothing built for visitors here.

Nearby

The Mandarin's House is beside it, and the Moorish Barracks are south.