Why does this traditional Chinese house stand near Senado Square and Cathedral Square? This is Lou Kau Mansion. It shows the diverse social life in the old Christian city.
Lou Kau Mansion was built around 1889. It was the home of Lou Kau. He was a prominent Chinese merchant. Lou Kau owned several properties in the city.
Lou Kau Mansion is a two-storey courtyard house. It has grey bricks and a traditional style. The Lou Kau Mansion shows typical xiguan Chinese architecture.
The facade has a recessed entrance. This creates an overhanging eave. It protects from the weather. It also shelters relief frieze decorations. These are above the grand entrance. This design was common in the Lingnan region.
The house has a symmetrical arrangement. It is organized in a three-by-three grid. Two courtyards sit in the central axis. They separate the three main halls. These are the Entrance Hall, Tea Hall, and Senior Hall. You can find them on the ground level.
This arrangement shows the hierarchy of Chinese families. Spaces further inside were for senior members. These spaces were more private. They were away from guests.
The Lou Kau Mansion is Chinese in structure. But its decorations add western touches. There are oyster shell applications on the windows. You can also spot neo-classical balustrades. The perforated wooden ceilings are like those in Macao’s churches. This technique is also found in Latin America.
Lou Kau was known for his banking business. He gave to charity. This earned him respect. In 1890, the King of Portugal honored him.
Lou Kau Mansion was once called the Hall of Gold and Jade. It became an Architectural Building of Interest in 1992. In 2002, the Cultural Institute restored it. It opened to the public in 2005.
Lou Kau Mansion is part of Macau’s Historic Centre. UNESCO approved it as a World Heritage Site on July 15, 2005.
As you leave Lou Kau Mansion think about the mix of cultures here. It is a place where East meets West. It is a treasure of Macau.