Visitors to the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt will be astonished by the wonderful structure and the exhibits in this historical site. The museum was actually built in 1996 where the ruins of St. Paul’s and the ancient church were once located. Inside the crypt, you will find remains of an ancient tomb that belonged to St. Paul’s College, Father Alexander Valignano. Alongside each of the walls visitors will see different artifacts; ones that stand out are the relics of Japanese and Vietnamese martyrs.
Objects of artistic and historical value are abundant within the museum. In the room right next to the crypt, there are materials that were recovered from the convents and the churches of Macau. Sacramental paintings of St. Francis, liturgical vessels, crucifixes, and religious statues are among some of the fascinating exhibits on display. The remarkable painting of Archangel Michael that dates back to the seventeenth century has been preserved in the museum. It was a painting that survived the fire in the year 1835 in St. Paul’s College.
Macau was the heart of the missionary base in the Far East during the 17th century. St. Paul’s College, which was a famous cultural and religious landmark at the time, took part in the major religious activities and festivals in that region. The church that was built on the grounds of St. Paul’s College participated in the missionary work for the country and for part of Asia. The journeys and stories of some of the missionary workers and their accomplishments are featured here, and these unique portrayals detail the difficulties missionary workers had to face at the time, which make up the rich history of the nation of Macau.
In the year 2005, the museum site was recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, as the remains of the church and the valuable items of St. Paul’s are tributes to the country’s impressive historical lineage. If travelers wish to explore Macau and desire a quality Macau hotel to host their stay, there are several options available. Of the numerous Macau Hotels has to offer its business and leisure visitors, the Galaxy Macau Resort Hotel offers prime accommodation with attentive hospitality to make your visit a memorable one.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+
