MANDARIN'S HOUSE

The Mandarin House, built around 1869, is one of Macau's most beautiful mansions and the city's largest private residence, covering 4,000 m². This vast complex of traditional Chinese architecture, with European influences, reflects the elegance of a palace. The house belonged to Zheng Guanying, an influential writer, merchant and reformer, who left his mark on history by inspiring major figures such as Sun Yat-Sen, the Father of Modern China, and Mao Zedong, founder of the People's Republic of China.

The house has over 60 rooms organized around charming courtyards. As in many Chinese homes, there are raised steps at the entrance, meant to keep evil spirits out - it's important not to step on them. The surviving period furniture offers a fascinating insight into life in those days.

Zheng Guanying's family lived in the house until the 1960s, after which it was rented out to as many as 300 people, causing rapid deterioration. In 2001, the government bought the property and undertook major restoration work, which lasted 10 years.

Today, the Maison du Mandarin has regained its former splendor, even if it has lost the superb view it once afforded of the inlet separating Macau from mainland China. It remains a living testimony to Macau's history and its rich cultural and architectural heritage. A wonderful visit!