The Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) will start restoration work on the historic gate of the “Pátio das Palmas (棕櫚葉圍 – “Courtyard of the Palms”) on Calçada de S. Francisco Xavier this year, which served as the entrance to the former Leong Veng Heng Incense Factory*, IC President Deland Leong Wai Man announced in a press conference yesterday.
Leong made the announcement after the government-appointed Cultural Heritage Council held its fourth plenary meeting of this year at the Macao Cultural Centre (CCM).
Leong noted that the restoration project for the gate was unanimously approved by the committee yesterday. The work is expected to get off the ground this year, with its cost estimated at around 200,000 patacas.
Leong pointed out that the building is located within the core zone of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Macao, situated on public land with no private owner. The plot is affected by issues such as wall cracks, missing components, and overgrown weeds, making repairs necessary.
Built between 1875 and 1908, the gate bears witness to the history of the incense-making industry, which was one of Macau’s four major handicraft industries, Leong pointed out, adding that it possesses both architectural artistry and historic value, and its restoration will enhance the streetscape and visual landscape of the historic city centre.
The property is located in close proximity to one of Macau’s two Na Tcha temples, the Ruins of St Paul’s and the Chi Lam Vai heritage walled village.
Committee member Luk Nam Tak underlined that Macau currently preserves more than 200 enclosed neighbourhood remnants of varying historic value, adding that the committee will gradually add explanatory plaques and QR code navigation signs to these historic remnants to promote relevant historical knowledge, thereby enriching cultural tourism’s characteristic elements.
*Leong Veng Heng Incense Factory (梁永馨香莊), established during the reign of Emperor Guangxu (1875-1908) in the Qing Dynasty, it was recognised as one of the major traditional incense manufacturers in Macau (alongside rival businesses like Chan Luen Hin), operating well-known factories and expanding its footprint with branches in regions like Hong Kong and Guangzhou. – Gemini, MPD
This undated file photo shows the historic gate to Pátio das Palmas (棕櫚葉圍) on Calçada de S. Francisco Xavier. – Photo courtesy of TDM
