Sir Robert Ho Tung Library

LenR
LenR
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Sir Robert Ho Tung Library

  • May 5, 2009
  • Rated 4 of 5 by LenR from Townsville, Australia
Sir Robert Ho Tung Library

The building which now houses the Sir Robert Ho Tung Library was constructed before 1894, as a residence. It is a typical example of a beautiful mansion equipped with an arcade and a garden. The mansion was later bought by Hong Kong businessman Sir Robert Ho Tung in 1918 to be his villa retreat.

In 1941, when Hong Kong fell into the hands of the Japanese, Sir Robert moved to Macao and stayed until the war ended in 1945. He passed away in 1955. According to his will, the building was to be presented to the Macao Government to be used as a public library. It was opened to the public as a library in 1958.

This three-storey library is located along the St Augustine Square and is right beside the entrance to the St Joseph Seminary. The extremely attractive intricate steel gate arches open on to the square and the seminary

The library has both a European and Asian feel, and is set amid peaceful gardens. After extensive renovation, a newly-equipped 4-storey building was built in 2005 beside the old structure. This has been designed to capture the maximum amount of natural light, and provides readers with a great view of the buildings of Macau’s Historic Centre nearby. The old building contains many ancient books published in the Ming and Qing dynasties, and an exhibition gallery. The two buildings can seat some 400 people, making it the largest library in Macau.

The library allows readers to eat and talk in special areas; readers can also listen to music and watch movies in the AV room. It is a great space to sit for a break as you explore ancient Macau on foot.

Opening hours are Monday to Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Sunday - 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Location: St. Augustine’s Square

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