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Introduction
“The Historic Centre of Macao” is located in an urban context that follows the development of the Portuguese settlement over history. The unplanned nature of early urban development in Macao is reflected in the organic, spontaneous character of the historic districts still in existence today. The route reveals Macao’s true identity, as the various layers and the sequence of buildings transmit a unique blend of western and Chinese cultures, with other regional influences, representing Macao’s primary function as a regional trade hub.
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Outstanding Universal Value
“The Historic Centre of Macao” is the product of cultural exchange between the western world and Chinese civilization. The settlement of Macao by Portuguese
navigators in the mid-16th century laid the basis for nearly five centuries of uninterrupted contact between East and West. The origins of Macao’s development into an international trading port make it the single most consistent example of cultural interchange between Europe and Asia.
Criterion (ii): “The Historic Centre of Macao” includes the oldest western architectural heritage on Chinese soil today. Together with Macao’s traditional Chinese architecture, it stands witness to the successful coexistence of East-West cultural plural ism and to East-West architectural traditions.
Criterion (iii): “The Historic Centre of Macao” is solid testimony of the city’s missionary role in the Far East while also reflecting the dissemination of Chinese folk beliefs to the western world.
Criterion (iv): “The Historic Centre of Macao” is the product of East-West cultural exchange, constituting the most unique blend of cultural heritage existing in China’s historic cities.
Criterion (vi): “The Historic Centre of Macao” presents a complete social
infrastructure that has encompassed and sustained the living traditions of different cultures.