Macao’s meandering lanes and inconspicuous alleys have a profound history and firm place in the city’s culture. “Pátios” (Portuguese for “courtyards”) and “becos” – narrow streets with dead ends – are the most humble public rights of way in Macao’s thoroughfare classification system. They have developed as community spaces where neighbours are closely connected.

Pátio do Espinho, or “patio of the thorn”, is near one of Macao’s landmarks, the Ruins of St. Paul’s. It is the only remaining patio-based village with occupied dwellings in Macao.

Pátio da Eterna Felicidade, or “patio of eternal joy”, is also known as the “Alley of Eternal Celebration” in Chinese. Its homes in Chinese architectural styles – and arched entrances – form an important part of Macao’s unique urban fabric and culture.

Pátio da Eterna Felicidade, or “patio of eternal joy”, is also known as the “Alley of Eternal Celebration” in Chinese. Its homes in Chinese architectural styles – and arched entrances – form an important part of Macao’s unique urban fabric and culture.

Beco da Felicidade, “alley of joy”, is located at the intersection of Rua Felicidade and Travessa do Aterro Novo, near Senado Square in the city’s old town. Typically, “pátios” and “becos” each have a shrine to the Earth God, where neighbours can worship the deity.

Beco da Felicidade, “alley of joy”, is located at the intersection of Rua Felicidade and Travessa do Aterro Novo, near Senado Square in the city’s old town. Typically, “pátios” and “becos” each have a shrine to the Earth God, where neighbours can worship the deity.

The Beco da Felicidade area was once a prosperous business quarter. Inside the hidden alley, there are still traditional buildings in Chinese architectural styles – and pavements surfaced with rectangular-shape stones – offering a glimpse of traditional Guangdong architecture.

Close to the Ruins of St. Paul’s – a place bustling with people – one can still find a quiet community space, Beco dos Faitiões. In the centre of the area is a small garden with a set of marble stone seats and some benches for neighbours to sit and share their gossip.

Close to the Ruins of St. Paul’s – a place bustling with people – one can still find a quiet community space, Beco dos Faitiões. In the centre of the area is a small garden with a set of marble stone seats and some benches for neighbours to sit and share their gossip.

The close-knit communities in “pátios” and “becos” are a storehouse of precious collective memories of Macao’s bygone days.