OWL Magazine Korea

Macao, Senado Square “Civil and Administrative Building”

The central area of the Macao Peninsula in the old town of Macao is undoubtedly the “Senado Square.” At Senado Square, you can find various UNESCO World Heritage sites, as it is densely packed with places containing Macao’s history.

“The meaning of Senado Square is ‘Senate’ in Portuguese.”

In Portuguese, “Senado” means “Senate.” So, if we translate this place directly into Korean, it can be referred to as “Senate Square.”

“In the past, the building that was used as the Senate during Portuguese colonial rule is now the Civil and Administrative Building.”

However, you can no longer find the Portuguese Senate building here. The building that was once used as the Senate during Portuguese colonial rule is called the “Civil and Administrative Building” now. It is no longer used as a Senate but serves as a government office in Macao. Since it was built during the Portuguese colonial period, the building follows the “Portuguese style.”

“This building with a long history is also naturally designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.”

The building of the Civil and Administrative Building is currently open to the public. Tourists can also enter and explore. On the first floor, there is a small gallery where you can appreciate art pieces.

The second floor is used as a library, but I personally haven’t had a chance to go inside. Also, there is a door leading to a garden seen on the way from the first floor to the second floor, where you can encounter a small but atmospheric garden. It’s like a little piece of Europe in Macao.

“Macao Peninsula, Civil and Administrative Building”

  • Address: 澳門市政署大樓, 163號 Av. de Almeida Ribeiro, Macau
  • Phone Number: +853 2857 2233
  • Website: http://www.library.gov.mo/en/
  • Operating Hours: 13:00 – 19:00 (Closed on Sundays)