As a historical military center in Macao, Fortaleza do Monte is part of the 'Historic Centre of Macao', inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Located immediately to the east of the Ruins of St Paul's, the fort was initially built in the 16th century for protecting the church from the pirates. Later it became solely a military fort. The fort blends well with the surrounding landscape. From the fortress, visitors get a excellent panoramic view of Macao.[Yang Dan/China.org.cn]