Tag: Posters Labourmap

  • Anthony’s Church

    Anthony’s Church

    ST. ANTHONY’S CHURH

    St. Anthony’s Church is one of the three ancient Catholic churches in Macau, originally built in the 15th century as a Jesuit station. The original church was a simple thatched chapel, but like many early churches in Macau, it was damaged by fires.

    The church is known as the “Church that Attracts Fire”. In 1930, the bell tower and main facade were rebuilt, and the church’s interior was renovated in 1951 and 1953, especially the altar. Today, repairs focus on the walls, portraits of saints, and structural elements to preserve its historical significance.

    Poster Author

    Daniel Hpung Rawng Naw Ja

    How to cite

    LabourMap-Macao: Mass labour impact on Public Works in Macau under Portuguese administration (1849-1999) (P.I. Ana Vaz Milheiro, FCT/2023.14980.PEX).
    St. Anthony Church. Accessed on 13th February 2026. Available at: https://archlabour.iscte-iul.pt/st-anthonys-church/

    Last update: February 10, 2026

    01

    Materials & Systems

    The church was first built in 1558 using thatch and bamboo. Inside, the church features a brick and wood structure with oval wooden vaults and a sloped roof. The layout includes a rectangular central hall with walls divided by pilasters. The interior is painted yellow and adorned with white, highlighted by a grand white main altar, large chandeliers, and colorful stained-glass windows, creating a romantic atmosphere. The front facade is in neoclassical style, while the altar showcases Baroque design with intricate details.

    02

    Workers & Skills

    St. Anthony’s Church was built and maintained by a variety of skilled workers. Architects designed the layout, ensuring beauty and stability. Stonemasons constructed the stone walls, while carpenters built the wooden structures, including the roof. Painters added yellow and white paint, enhancing the church’s charm. Glaziers created stained glass windows for color, and restoration experts repaired fire damage, keeping the church historically accurate.

    See Original Poster

    LabourMap-Macao is an Exploratory Project funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (2023.14980.PEX).

    Beta trial disclaimer

    The LabourMap-Macao team is responsible for the maintenance of this website, which is intended to facilitate public access to information about the group’s initiatives. Although this is still a beta trial, the intention is to release the information in a timely and accurate manner. Should any errors be brought to the attention of the team, they will be corrected.

    archlabour.erc@iscte-iul.pt

    Iscte-CVTT, Av. Forças Armadas, Lisboa, Portugal

  • Taipa Houses

    Taipa Houses

    TAIPA HOUSES

    Built in 1921, the Taipa houses were originally constructed for the residences of Portuguese senior civil servants and Macanese families. The five iconic and cultural houses located in Avenida da Praia in the Taipa Village have undergone many changes throughout the years. The houses were classified to have architectural value in 1992 as stated in the Cultural Affairs Bureau. The five houses were then renovated by the Macau government into a museum site “Taipa Houses Museum” and were opened to the public in 1999.

    Poster Author

    Nixzel Bre Villaluz Dela Cruz

    How to cite

    LabourMap-Macao: Mass labour impact on Public Works in Macau under Portuguese administration (1849-1999) (P.I. Ana Vaz Milheiro, FCT/2023.14980.PEX).
    Taipa Houses. Accessed on 13th February 2026. Available at: https://archlabour.iscte-iul.pt/taipa-houses/

    Last update: February 10, 2026

    01

    Materials & Systems

    There is only limited information about the materials and systems of the Taipa Houses, but there are some insights and data from construction practices in Macau. Roofs were made from terracotta roof tiles, typically used in Portuguese architecture; not only are they aesthetically pleasing but they also have a rather long durability, resistant to strong winds or rain. The pillars and arches could have been built by using slabs and woods or concrete due to the width. At the time the Taipa Houses were being renovated, traditional practices were used, as well as materials that are compatible with the existing structures to avoid further damage.

    02

    Workers & Skills

    Considering that Macau was still under Portuguese administration while the Taipa Houses were established in 1921, it is most likely that some Portuguese authorities had overseen the construction project. This could mean that Portuguese engineers, architects, and laborers were involved in the construction of the Taipa Houses, although the actual or most of the construction could be carried out by Chinese laborers. This is due to the fact that Macau was colonised and there was a Chinese labor dominance in construction during that period in other countries. Other than that, there should be masons involve, workers who are skilled and responsible for masonry construction.

    See Original Poster

    LabourMap-Macao is an Exploratory Project funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (2023.14980.PEX).

    Beta trial disclaimer

    The LabourMap-Macao team is responsible for the maintenance of this website, which is intended to facilitate public access to information about the group’s initiatives. Although this is still a beta trial, the intention is to release the information in a timely and accurate manner. Should any errors be brought to the attention of the team, they will be corrected.

    archlabour.erc@iscte-iul.pt

    Iscte-CVTT, Av. Forças Armadas, Lisboa, Portugal

  • St. Lawrence Church

    St. Lawrence Church

    ST. LAWRENCE CHURCH

    St. Lawrence Church in Macao, one the city’s oldest, was originally built by the Jesuits, before 1560 and rebuild in its present neoclassical form in 1846. Its historical context includes being a gathering place for families of Portuguese sailors waiting for their loved ones to return, which led to its chine name “Feng Shun Tang” or “Hall of the Sooting Winds”. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and was built in a prosperous, affluent neighborhood that reflects Macau’s maritime trade history.

    Poster Author

    Brenny Noemia

    How to cite

    LabourMap-Macao: Mass labour impact on Public Works in Macau under Portuguese administration (1849-1999) (P.I. Ana Vaz Milheiro, FCT/2023.14980.PEX).
    St. Lawrence Church. Accessed on 13th February 2026. Available at: https://archlabour.iscte-iul.pt/st-lawrence-church/

    Last update: February 10, 2026

    01

    Materials & Systems

    The main materials used in its construction included bricks, which were often produced locally, and lime, used as a binder in the mortar to join the bricks and coat surfaces. Wood also played a crucial role, being used both in structural elements, such as beams and roofs, and in interior finishes, such as altars and doors. Additionally, decorative ceramics and tiles were applied to embellish the interior, reflecting the fusion of Portuguese and Chinese styles. These materials and construction techniques were carefully chosen, taking into account Macao’s tropical climate and the availability of local resources.

    02

    Workers & Skills

    Stonemasons played a fundamental role, taking charge of the masonry and construction of the walls, using bricks and stones to ensure the stability of the structure. Carpenters were also essential, being responsible for the construction of the roof and the creation of wooden elements, such as doors and altars, using their skills to work with different types of wood. In addition to these, artists and artisans brought a decorative touch to the church. Painters specializing in frescoes and sculptors who created religious images adorned the interior with works that reflected the spirituality and culture of the time. The master builder oversaw the entire process, coordinating the different groups of workers.

    See Original Poster

    LabourMap-Macao is an Exploratory Project funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (2023.14980.PEX).

    Beta trial disclaimer

    The LabourMap-Macao team is responsible for the maintenance of this website, which is intended to facilitate public access to information about the group’s initiatives. Although this is still a beta trial, the intention is to release the information in a timely and accurate manner. Should any errors be brought to the attention of the team, they will be corrected.

    archlabour.erc@iscte-iul.pt

    Iscte-CVTT, Av. Forças Armadas, Lisboa, Portugal

  • Guia Lighthouse

    Guia Lighthouse

    GUIA LIGHTHOUSE

    Built in 1865, the Guia Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Macau and a vital part of its maritime history. Its design showcases Portuguese colonial architecture, featuring a cylindrical structure made from locally sourced stone and brick. The lighthouse is painted in alternating white and red stripes, ensuring high visibility for vessels navigating the waters. Upon its completion, the lighthouse became essential for guiding ships safely in and out of the Macau harbor, especially as the shipping industry flourished. Over the years, the lighting equipment has been upgraded to provide a stronger beam, enhancing its navigational capabilities under various weather conditions.

    Poster Author

    Michael Chan Kei Meng

    How to cite

    LabourMap-Macao: Mass labour impact on Public Works in Macau under Portuguese administration (1849-1999) (P.I. Ana Vaz Milheiro, FCT/2023.14980.PEX).
    Guia Lighthouse. Accessed on 13th February 2026. Available at: https://archlabour.iscte-iul.pt/guia-lighthouse/

    Last update: February 10, 2026

    01

    Materials & Systems

    The Guia Lighthouse is primarily constructed from locally sourced stone and brick, materials chosen for their durability and ability to withstand the harsh marine environment. The use of these materials reflects the architectural practices of the 19th century, particularly the influence of Portuguese colonial style, which emphasized both functionality and aesthetics. The cylindrical design of the lighthouse not only provides structural integrity but also allows for efficient wind resistance, ensuring stability during storms. The combination of durable materials and advanced lighting systems ensures that the Guia Lighthouse remains a critical navigational aid while standing as a historical landmark that reflects the maritime heritage of Macau.

    02

    Workers & Skills

    The construction of the Guia Lighthouse required skilled stonemasons and craftsmen adept in using local materials. These workers possessed advanced techniques necessary for constructing a durable structure capable of enduring harsh marine conditions. Their expertise ensured the lighthouse’s stability and longevity, reflecting the architectural practices of the 19th century. Additionally, maintaining the lighthouse demands technicians familiar with marine environments, capable of performing regular inspections and repairs. This specialized knowledge is crucial for ensuring the lighthouse’s continued functionality and safety, thereby preserving its role as a vital navigational aid for vessels in Macau’s waters.

    See Original Poster

    LabourMap-Macao is an Exploratory Project funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (2023.14980.PEX).

    Beta trial disclaimer

    The LabourMap-Macao team is responsible for the maintenance of this website, which is intended to facilitate public access to information about the group’s initiatives. Although this is still a beta trial, the intention is to release the information in a timely and accurate manner. Should any errors be brought to the attention of the team, they will be corrected.

    archlabour.erc@iscte-iul.pt

    Iscte-CVTT, Av. Forças Armadas, Lisboa, Portugal

  • Ruins of St. Paul’s

    Ruins of St. Paul’s

    RUINS OF ST. PAUL’S (1)

    The Ruins of St. Paul’s in Macau stand as a powerful symbol of cultural fusion and historical resilience. Designed by Italian Jesuit Carlo Spinola, the structure showcased a unique blend of European and Asian architectural styles. Originally constructed in the early 17th century, the site was part of a grand Jesuit complex that included the Church of Mater Dei and St. Paul’s College. In 1835, a fire destroyed most of the church and college buildings, leaving only the stone façade and a few foundations. Restoration efforts were undertaken in 1995 to preserve the façade and archaeological remains, led by the Macau Cultural Bureau.

    Poster Author

    Kezia Jane Ann Allen
    Melanie Andreia Lima Melício
    Scent Vashti

    How to cite

    LabourMap-Macao: Mass labour impact on Public Works in Macau under Portuguese administration (1849-1999) (P.I. Ana Vaz Milheiro, FCT/2023.14980.PEX).
    Ruins of St. Paul’s. Accessed on 13th February 2026. Available at: https://archlabour.iscte-iul.pt/ruins-of-st-pauls/

    Last update: February 10, 2026

    01

    Materials & Systems

    The Jesuits brought European construction methods, including stone carving and vaulting techniques, while local artisans and laborers contributed significantly, blending European design with Chinese building practices. The grand façade was built from granite blocks, chosen for durability and visual impact. Lime mortar was used as a binding agent in masonry, typical of European construction at the time. Decorative elements and interior finishes may have included lime-based plaster. Gold leaf and paint were used for religious iconography and embellishments, especially within the church. The five-level façade was built to resemble a retablo (a decorative altar screen), with niches for statues and symbolic carvings.

    02

    Workers & Skills

    A cross-cultural coordination of designers, supervisors, and symbolic planners with Baroque architecture skills and religious iconography. Notable figures are Carlo Spinola (architect), and Alessandro Valignano (founder and strategist). Jesuits acted as project managers, combining European architectural vision with local execution. They recruited skilled workers through missionary networks and local Christian converts, while training local artisans in European techniques while adapting to local materials and styles. Teams were often multilingual and multi-ethnic. Laborers and porters provided construction support by transporting granite blocks, mixing mortar, and site preparations. There were also Japanese Christian Artisans, some of whom refugees from Japan’s anti-Christian persecutions.

    See Poster 1
    See Poster 2
    See Poster 3

    LabourMap-Macao is an Exploratory Project funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (2023.14980.PEX).

    Beta trial disclaimer

    The LabourMap-Macao team is responsible for the maintenance of this website, which is intended to facilitate public access to information about the group’s initiatives. Although this is still a beta trial, the intention is to release the information in a timely and accurate manner. Should any errors be brought to the attention of the team, they will be corrected.

    archlabour.erc@iscte-iul.pt

    Iscte-CVTT, Av. Forças Armadas, Lisboa, Portugal

  • A-Má Temple

    A-Má Temple

    A-MÁ TEMPLE

    The A-Ma Temple, also known as Barra Temple, is one of the oldest and most historically significant temples in Macau. This temple honors A-Ma (also known as Mazu or Tin Hau), the goddess of seafarers and fishermen Its existence predates the city itself, as it was already an established site when Portuguese sailors first landed on the peninsula in 1553. In fact, the temple is intrinsically linked to the origin of Macau’s name, it is believed the Portuguese heard the location referred to as “A-Má Gau” (Bay of A-Ma) and transcribed it as “Macau”. Today, the temple is part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Macau.

    Poster Authors

    Mariana Correia and Angela Wang
    Sabrine Semedo
    Ho Chong Hong Arthur
    Lui Pui Sin Vanessa

    How to cite

    LabourMap-Macao: Mass labour impact on Public Works in Macau under Portuguese administration (1849-1999) (P.I. Ana Vaz Milheiro, FCT/2023.14980.PEX). A-Ma Temple (1). Accessed on 13th February 2026. Available at: https://archlabour.iscte-iul.pt/a-ma-temple/

    Last update: February 10, 2026

    01

    Materials & Systems

    Macau’s A-Ma Temple is an example of traditional Chinese temple construction, using materials and techniques perfected over centuries. Its main structural system is timber construction, a hallmark of Chinese sacred architecture. The load-bearing system consists of solid timber columns and intricate dougong assemblies (traditional Chinese interlocking wooden brackets that transfer a building’s roof load to columns).
    The primary materials are granite and timber, sourced locally. Granite is used for the foundations of the platform, staircases, and protective walls, attaching the temple to the hillside. The walls are often filled, constructed of gray brick, and serve no structural function. The wide, curved roofs are covered with glazed terracotta tiles, usually in imperial yellow or green, which are both decorative and functional for rainwater drainage.

    02

    Workers & Skills

    The construction and preservation of the A-Ma Temple relied on a collaborative, hierarchical workforce. The Temple was built by different groups of skilled workers. Master builders who worked with stone created the arches and carved the rocks. Woodworkers built the beautiful halls and curved roofs. These workers were experts in traditional Chinese building. They were probably brought together by community leaders or religious groups who wanted to build the temple. These teams worked on different parts of the temple at different times over many years. Their combined skills and hard work created the entire temple complex we see today.

    See Poster 1
    See Poster 2
    See Poster 3
    See Poster 4

    LabourMap-Macao is an Exploratory Project funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (2023.14980.PEX).

    Beta trial disclaimer

    The LabourMap-Macao team is responsible for the maintenance of this website, which is intended to facilitate public access to information about the group’s initiatives. Although this is still a beta trial, the intention is to release the information in a timely and accurate manner. Should any errors be brought to the attention of the team, they will be corrected.

    archlabour.erc@iscte-iul.pt

    Iscte-CVTT, Av. Forças Armadas, Lisboa, Portugal