Saturday 27 July 2013

The square

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The square is so named as since Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) it has been in front of the Leal Senado Building. During the era of Portuguese control this is where the local authorities used to review the troops on their inaugurations. In 1940, there was a statue of a Portuguese soldier named Mesquita in its centre. 

He was responsible for the deaths of many Chinese soldiers during the hostilities with the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Understandably, the statue has been destroyed by Chinese people and replaced by a fountain; this is why the square is also called "the Fountain".

In the early 1990s, the authority hired some Portuguese experts to pave the square with a wave-patterned mosaic of colored stones. From then on this area has become a popular place for cultural activities in Macau. The buildings around the Senado Square have a long history and have many western features, so they have been well protected by the authority and no one is allowed to alter the facades of these buildings.

There are shopping centers and traditional Chinese restaurants around the square. Fashion clothes, famous snacks and the scenic environment make it a famous attraction. Firework displays, lion and dragon dances are usually held on special days such as the Chinese Spring Festival and Christmas. One can go and enjoy those activities.
 This area is witness to the history of Macau as an entry into western countries to China in the past. Almost in every corner of this field displays the architects of European-style buildings. Worth a visit in this area is the church of St. Dominic and the Holy House of Mercy. The latter represents the first institution that had the idea that the first western-style clinic in Macau. 

Among the old buildings, many shops and restaurants can be visited. With these old buildings, so this location is the best location for the shooting. If this field visit during the day, the sun is pretty hot. So, be prepared to bring an umbrella or sunglasses.

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