Macau, a 30.3 km2 area almost reaching a 650, 000 population, is considered as the most densely populated place in the world. The market of tourism and gambling plays an indispensible role in the society.
I have visited Macau many times in my life (about an hour ferry ride from Hong Kong) , and have therefore experienced how rapid developments have changed a small fish village to a fast-paced metropolis. Recently, I have witnessed yet another “monument” that has been erected in the Cotai Strip, a strip and central location of various hotel-casinos in the Cotai section: a replica half-scale Eiffel tower.
This landmark belonging to the gaming resort “The Parisian” will soon be opened and will definitely catch the eyes of locals and incoming tourists. Interestingly, one could not ignore the artificiality surrounding the area when stepping into this gaming hub.
It is in my understanding that Macau, once a colony of Portugal, has a trend to emphasize itself as a convergence between Eastern and Western culture. I wonder, could this be the reason behind the constant Europeanized outlook of these new buildings? Or could this reflect, among its numerous visitors, that there is a mentality for creating an idealistic yet artificial persona?
Cities, undoubtedly, are human creations. They are most, if not all, constructed for human needs such as convenience, trading and reproduction. It is my opinion that a city represents the likely attribute of its inhabitants. When Macau people immerse in these overly lavish and unnatural structures, could it mean that they also become more pretentious? It’s something I have been thinking about lately. If so, it would mean that Macau, a fabricated city, would have produced a citizenry that has become ostentatious.
I would not be surprised if there will be more symbolic replicas appearing in the next decade. However, it is worth to rethink the longevity of their functions and their impact on people.
"The Parisian"