University of Macau Centre for Chinese History and Culture Master’s Program: “Macao in Chinese History” Series of Cultural Field Trips Successfully Concluded
In order to deepen students’ understanding of Macao’s historical and cultural heritage, the University of Macau Centre for Chinese History and Culture Master’s Program “Macao in Chinese History” organized two cultural field trips on February 16, 2025, and April 13, 2025. Led by course instructor Prof. IEONG Hoi Keng, the students visited Macao’s cultural relics, religious sites, and distinctive areas. Through on-site learning and expert explanations, they gained insight into Macao’s profound historical foundation of Macao and the inclusiveness of Chinese culture.
On February 16, 2025, the first field trip began at the A-Ma Temple. Amidst the scenic surroundings, students listened to Prof. IEONG ‘s explanations about the harmony between nature and Mazu culture. Subsequently, Mr. Wong, a tour guide from the Macau Maritime Museum(Museu Marítimo de Macau), elaborated on the maritime history of China and Portugal in Macao. After passing by Moorish Barracks and Largo do Lilau, the group arrived at the Mandarin’s House.
In the afternoon, the students visited the Kong Tac Lam Temple, where they viewed precious ancient books and archives. At St. Joseph’s Seminary and Church, Father Liu led the students on a tour of the religious texts and liturgical artifacts in the church’s treasure house, and explained the development of Catholicism in Macao. The group then engaged in a discussion with Father Fernando, the Jesuit Rector, and others.
The group also visited the Leal Senado Building to learn about the early history of Macao’s self-governance, and the Leal Senado Building Library to explore Macao’s valuable documents. The final stop of the day was the Diocesan Curia, where students interacted with the Bishop in charge of historical archives and cultural relics, and gained a deeper understanding of the diocesan archives and manuscript materials.
On April 13, 2025, The second field trip started at the Museu Lin Zexu de Macau. Students reviewed the historical deeds of the national hero Lin Zexu through joint explanations by the hall curator and Prof. IEONG. They then visited the Lin Fong Temple, Kun Iam Temple, and Kun Iam Tong, analyzing the cultural characteristics of Macao’s diverse folk beliefs through inscriptions and architectural details. Students also enjoyed a vegetarian meal at the Kun Iam Temple.
In the afternoon, representatives from Galaxy Entertainment Group introduced the company’s strategies for promoting cultural sustainability and arranged a visit to the Galaxy Art Collection exhibition. Finally, the students visited the Lai Chi Vun Shipyards to learn about the history and contemporary conservation significance of Macao’s traditional shipbuilding skills.
These two field trips broke through the boundaries of the classroom and provided practical examples for promoting historical and cultural education and the cultivation of patriotic spirit.