Macau and the Jesuits in China (16th and 17th centuries)

As the Jesuits were the first religious order established in Macau and China, we analyse their action in the 16th and 17th centuries, as well as the role of Macau. From Saint Paul's College in Macau and Saint Paul's College in Goa Jesuit missionaries were sent to missions in Japan, Tonkin, Tidore, China, Ternat, Siam, Amboino, Malacca, Pegu, Cambodja, Solor, Conchinchine, Makassar, Bengal, Bisnaga, Madurai, Costa da Pescaria, Ceilon, Travancor, Malabar, Goa, North Salcette (Bombay), Lahor, Diu, Ethiopia, Monomotapa (African East Coast), etc. Fathers Michele Ruggiere, S.J. (1543-1607), and Matteo Ricci, S.J. (1552-1610), were the first Jesuit missionaries to introduce new laws of adaptation to the culture, habits and traditions as well as to the Chinese language. The Company of Jesus played a major role in the foundation, growth and conservation of Macau as well as in the Imperial Court of Beijing (where they became known as the "Court Priests").