The historic centres of Macau and Diaolou, in Kaiping City in neighbouring Guangdong Province, are both inscribed on the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage List.
The Historic Centre of Macau is said to be a “living representation” of the city’s establishment, encompassing a series of very popular architectural legacies with charming historic streetscapes.
There are over 20 immovable heritage sites including historical monuments, structures and complexes interwoven in the heart of the city: The emblematic A-Ma Temple, the Ruins of St. Paul’s, Macau’s most famous stop for tourists, St. Dominic’s Church, the Mount Fortress, a section of the 16th Century city wall and, of course, Senado Square with its iconic calcada paving.
Casa Garden, with it’s tranquil verdant ambiance, the 17th Century Guia Fortress and the Protestant Cemetery with its small chapel built in 1821 and the graves of famous former British residents such as artist George Chinnery and missionary Robert Morrison, are also included.
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Macau’s UNESCO World Heritage Listing, the Cultural Affairs Bureau will hold a series of 35 events, including exhibitions, cultural performances, seminars, and book launches. Speaking at a press conference in June, the Cultural Affairs Bureau president, Ung Vai Meng, revealed that the budget for these activities is MOP3.3 million.
Ung Vai Meng also disclosed that 10 significant properties will be added to the city’s current 128-item heritage list, noting that the Bureau is finalizing the draft of the list and will announce which properties will comprise it soon. A public consultation will also be held.
Macau bears testimony to one of the earliest and longest-lasting encounters between China and the West based on the vibrancy of international trade, relations and culture. The honour of being recognized by UNESCO is a fitting tribute and the 10th anniversary is an opportune time to celebrate the reasons behind it.
