Heritage | Patane Night Watch House opens today after renovation

The Patane Night Watch House opens today

Thematic exhibition hall at the venue: “Macau’s Night Watch Houses”

To celebrate the tenth anniversary of the city’s historic center inscription on the World Heritage List, the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) and the To Tai Mio Patane Mercy and Charity Association have co-organized the restoration of the Patane Night Watch House to showcase an exhibition of Macau’s night watch culture.
The night watchmen in ancient China reported the time and reminded citizens to take precautions against fire and theft. The community service gradually vanished during the modernization phase of the city.
The Patane Night Watch is the only surviving group in the SAR today adhering to the night watch practices of the past.
In order to revitalize the Patane Night Watch House, the Cultural Affairs Bureau undertook a construction survey, a mapping of the building, along with structural recovery and façade renovation efforts to “restore the old [building] to its old form.”
The original layout of the night watch house was reinstated along with the reproduction of unique features, such as a large retaining stone and a fresco inside the house.
The exhibition space at the newly renovated Patane Night Watch House is divided into two themed halls, namely “Macau’s Night Watch Houses” and “Image of Night Watchmen.” Accompanied by historical photos, actual exhibits and multimedia, the renovated architecture reminds residents of an occupation that was once highly energetic and valued.
The project seeks to preserve Macau’s folk and historical culture, and carry forward the traditional values of mutual assistance within the neighborhood. Its opening will not only enrich the cultural resources in the district, but also provide more leisure spaces for residents, the IC says.
The premise, located at No. 52-54, Rua da Palmeira, officially opens to the public today. It is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., including on public holidays, but not on Mondays. Admission is free. Staff reporter