Chio Family Mansion set to open this year

The Chio Family Mansion, located on Travessa da Porta, is currently undergoing an exciting restoration and revitalization process, with plans to open to the public later this year.

Such plans were revealed by Deland Leong, president of the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC), in response to a recent written inquiry by lawmaker Ho Ion Sang.

The previously undisclosed purchase of the Chio Mansion marks what was once the residence of the prominent Chio clan, a lineage based in Mong Ha Village. The main structure, built no later than 1875, showcases a Lingnan-style design featuring three open courtyards, three halls, and two corridors.

Due to space constraints in the main building, four more houses were added adjoining the four corners of the main structure during later expansions. In 2021, the Cultural Affairs Bureau acquired the property for MOP8 million.

Last year, the Chio Mansion was designated as a cultural heritage building,  swith authorities announcing plans to complete its restoration by the first quarter of this year, followed by the introduction of “new functions.”

The Cultural Affairs Bureau previously stated that the mansion is one of the few late Qing dynasty Chinese-style mansions in Macau with a clear historical context and a complete architectural layout. It has the potential to be transformed into an exhibition space, allowing the public to learn about the history of the Chio family and the traditional Chinese architectural elements of the mansion.

“This initiative aims to promote Chinese traditional culture and showcase the lifestyle of Chinese people in the past, contributing to the preservation of Chinese heritage in Macau and the development of its older districts.”

In Leong’s reply to Ho, the government confirmed that it is proceeding in an orderly manner with the protection, restoration, and revitalization of the Chio Mansion. This includes the completion of a real estate appraisal last year.

Additionally, the clearing of debris, structural reinforcement, 3D scanning, and architectural surveying of the mansion have been completed, along with the collection of preliminary historical data and the formulation of specific restoration plans.

Leong further emphasized that opening the mansion to the public will not only enhance connections with surrounding historical and cultural attractions but also promote the rich traditions of Chinese culture, in a bid to enrich the diversity and appeal of the district’s cultural and tourism experience.