Leal Senado Building, Neoclassical government building in Senado Square, Macau.
The Leal Senado Building is a neoclassical structure with a symmetrical facade spanning 44 meters, featuring granite Doric columns, French windows, and iron-railed balconies. The interior is organized with clear divisions and conveys a sense of official dignity through its architectural design and layout.
Portuguese authorities purchased the land in 1784 and replaced a Chinese pavilion with this structure that became the city's political center. The name 'Loyal Senate' was granted in 1654 when King John IV of Portugal recognized Macau's refusal to accept Spanish rule.
The building houses a library modeled after Portugal's Mafra Convent, containing foreign language books collected over several centuries. This collection reflects the city's deep connection to overseas trade routes and cultural exchange with distant lands.
The building is accessible daily with guided tours available on weekends, giving visitors flexibility in planning their visit. It is helpful to go during less crowded times to better appreciate the architectural details and interior spaces.
The building was erected in 1784 with an investment of 80,000 taels, showing the immense economic importance of Macau to Portugal at that time. This substantial sum demonstrates how significant the city was as a trading center for Portuguese administrative interests.
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