|
Macao, also written Macau, was an important port and trading centre during the Portuguese administration, from mid-16th century up to 1999. Its historic centre has been carefully preserved, with many of its historic streets, churches, temples, residences and Portuguese government buildings still standing.
The tangible heritage of Macao bears witness to the blend of eastern and western ideas of aesthetics, culture, architecture and technology, and stands today as a showcase of the long lasting relationship between the West and its encounters with China.
The Historic Centre of Macao was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site during the 29th session of the World Heritage Committee in Durban, South Africa, on 10-17 July, 2005. The core zone covers an area of 16.1678 hectares wrapped around by a 106.781 hectare buffer zone. Within the property is the oldest lighthouse in China.
Photos of Historic Centre of Macao
Ruins of St Paul, Macau (8 November 2007)
© Timothy Tye using this photo
Holy House of Mercy, Macau (8 November 2007)
© Timothy Tye using this photo
Church of St Dominic, Macau (8 November 2007)
© Timothy Tye using this photo
World Heritage Site Inscription Details
Location: N 22 11 28.651 E 113 32 11.26
Inscription Year: 2005
Type of Site: Cultural
Inscription Criteria: II, III, IV, VI
Location Map
View Historic Centre of Macao in a larger map
Visiting Historic Centre of Macao
Macau International Airport (MFM) gets flights from many Asian cities. From the airport, take bus AP1 which goes through Taipa island and then on to the Macau peninsula, terminating at the Barrier Gate.
Exploring Macau
Macau Peninsula is small enough to be explore on foot. For greater distances, buy a bus map and then get acquainted with taking the bus. As Macau is quite small, you couldn't go too far the wrong way.
|
