The beauty of Sir Robert Ho Tung Library is not just in its distinctive design and the tranquil environment of the gardens, but also its location – St. Augustine’s Square, an area full of unique cultural atmosphere. Starting from Sir Robert Ho Tung Library, there are St. Joseph Seminary and Dom Pedro V Theatre on the right, opposite to St. Augustine's Church; walking down the slope on the left are residential areas in traditional Chinese archway design, Pátio do Mainato and Pátio dos Cules, which contain both Chinese and Western elements, witnessing the integration of Chinese and Western cultures.
Led by Macao architect and artist Andre Lui Chak Keong, participants walked into the Dom Pedro V Theatre, the first Westernstyle theatre in China, and learned about the neoclassical Greek Revival style of architecture. After that they went to Augustine’s Church to compare its past and present appearances. Then they walked to Pátio dos Cules; there is a legend that it was a habitation for Chinese coolies who prepared to work outside Macao during the 19th century. This activity enabled the participants to understand the landscape in the area of St. Augustine’s Square from architectural culture and arts.
Andre Lui Chak Keong said, “Although the history of Sir Robert Ho Tung Library is important, I think the entire area and surrounding buildings also help you better understand the library, that’s the reason why this guided tour and sketching activity is carried out.” As a member who had once taken part in the construction project of the new building of Sir Robert Ho Tung Library, Lui also introduced the initial glass-house design for a better display of the gorgeous garden spaces inside the library. “Sir Robert Ho Tung Library is a special library building in Macao since there is a small garden both at its front and back, and the stones of the hill are also preserved as decoration. Therefore, the glass design allows readers to enjoy the beautiful garden scenery from indoors,” he continued.
For those who are interested in the history of the area of St. Augustine’s Square, Lui recommended two books, including the one by famous western painter George Chinnery that records Macao scenery – Traveller's Home: Masterworks by George Chinnery, and the other by Mr. Wong Man Tat that introduces the past and present Macao – Anecdotes of Macao (Aomen Zhanggu). Interested parties can borrow them at Macao Public Library.
