The Seminary was founded by the Jesuits in 1728 where they educated many young Macanese and foreigners. However, in 1758, the Marquis of Pombal had the Jesuits removed, imprisoned and brought to Lisbon in 1762. The Lazarist took over the school in 1784. They provided a very high standard of education and the seminary received the distinction of "Royal Seminary". The school was eventually elevated into a university. Many famous missionaries passed through these doors and pushed the evangelization of China and other countries in the region.
The main building of the seminary was restored three times, in 1903, 1953 and 1995. The seminary building originally had only two floors and a third one was added at the end of the 19th century. Constructed predominantly of grey bricks, the solid walls stand on granite foundations. Inside, wide corridors give access to the various classrooms. The main corridor has arched doors on one side and arched windows facing the inner patio. The ground floor is paved with stone and ceramic tiles, while most of the upper floors are laid with teak. The roof is covered with Chinese tiles.
The seminary itself is located on Saint Augustine’s Square but access to the Church is only through the back.
This church was opened in 1758 as part of the seminary. Located on a hill, with twin brick roofed towers, it was a famous landmark that was often a subject for artists. It is laid out in cruciform shape, with a high domed ceiling. Its exceptionally fine acoustics make it an excellent venue for concerts during the annual International Music Festival. A door beside the altar leads to an exquisite walled garden containing an ancient well and plant nursery.
The building underwent many alterations, especially in 1865, 1903 and 1953. In the 1953 project, the building's exterior was completely covered in a grainy plaster. At this time, two wooden confessionals in a Gothic design were introduced. In 1999, the church underwent restoration work, returning the building to its original image.
In contrast to the seminary building, the church is renowned for its elaborate baroque style. The main façade is impressive, with two towers roofed with deep red glazed tiles. The three altars are elaborately ornamented and the broken arch pediments are supported by two sets of four spiral columns with gold-leaf motifs. The main altar houses a statue of St. Joseph.
by LenR on May 5, 2009