The Poly MGM Museum recently celebrated its grand opening at the MGM Macau, marking a defining moment for Macau's cultural landscape. This collaboration between Poly Culture and MGM signifies a commitment to preserving Chinese heritage while fostering global cultural exchange. The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Ho Iat Seng, chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region; Pansy Ho, chairperson and executive director of MGM China Holdings Limited; and Liu Hualong, chairman of Poly Group Corporation.
The museum is a response to Macau's growing prominence as a centre for cultural tourism, leveraging its historical role as a vital node on the Maritime Silk Road. Both Poly Culture and MGM view the museum as a bridge between China and the world, blending Chinese traditions with modern perspectives. Liu highlighted this partnership as an extension of the Greater Bay Area initiative, which emphasises collaboration and cultural preservation. Pansy described the museum as a "cultural palace" designed to connect past and present, East and West, while promoting Macau's rich heritage as a hub for global exchange.
Chairman of China Poly Group Corporation Limited, Liu Hualong, left, and Pansy Ho, right, Chairperson and Executive Director of MGM China Holdings Limited. (Photos courtesy of Poly MGM Museum)
An Innovative Cultural Space
Situated on the 2nd floor of MGM Macau, the Poly MGM Museum is a modern marvel that spans nearly 2,000m². Designed to the exacting standards required for exhibiting Grade-One cultural relics, the museum employs cutting-edge environmental regulation technologies to ensure the preservation of its priceless artefacts. Its architectural design combines traditional Chinese craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, offering visitors a blend of heritage and innovation.
The museum was conceived not only as a repository of relics but as a vibrant cultural platform. Its goal is to educate, inspire and engage audiences through immersive experiences. By integrating advanced technology with traditional narratives, the museum seeks to create a multi-sensory environment that appeals to visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
The Maritime Silk Road: A Journey Through Time
The museum's inaugural exhibition, "The Maritime Silk Road: Discover The Mystical Seas And Encounter The Treasures Of The Ancient Trade Route", reflects its mission to explore historical connections and foster cross-cultural understanding. Featuring 184 sets of artefacts totalling 228 individual pieces, the exhibition showcases contributions from nearly 20 national museums. Among its highlights are 30 Grade-One relics, including the celebrated Bronze Zodiac Heads from the Old Summer Palace, which underscore China's rich cultural legacy.
The exhibition is divided into four thematic sections: Monsoon, Cultural Origin, Integration and Connections. Together, they trace the history, development and enduring significance of the Maritime Silk Road as a cultural and economic network that shaped civilisations.
- Monsoon: Navigating the Seas
The journey begins with an exploration of humanity's relationship with the ocean, charting the evolution of maritime technology and navigation. This section showcases ancient maps, ship models and artefacts that highlight the ingenuity of early seafarers. Visitors are guided through the Age of Discovery, learning about the pivotal role of the Maritime Silk Road in connecting continents and fostering trade.
- Cultural Origin: Treasures Beneath the Waves
The second section focuses on underwater archaeology, revealing the mysteries of ancient shipwrecks and salvaged treasures. Artefacts such as porcelain, coins and tools tell the story of China's flourishing maritime trade. This chapter also highlights the importance of key ports and the artisans who created the exquisite goods that became coveted commodities along the route.
- Integration: Bridging Cultures
This section celebrates the cultural exchanges facilitated by the Maritime Silk Road. Trade goods such as silk, spices and ceramics serve as tangible evidence of the connections between East and West. Stories of merchants, envoys and travellers illustrate how these exchanges shaped art, cuisine and daily life across the globe. The exhibits emphasise the profound influence of these interactions on modern globalisation.
- Connections: Charting the Future
The exhibition concludes with a forward-looking perspective, exploring themes of marine conservation, cultural preservation and the Belt and Road Initiative. Multimedia installations, including documentaries and artistic interpretations, underscore the continued relevance of the Maritime Silk Road. This chapter invites visitors to consider how historical lessons can inform a more interconnected and sustainable future.
A Landmark for Macau
The Poly MGM Museum is a significant addition to Macau's cultural offerings, reinforcing its position as a global centre for cultural tourism. Macau's unique history as a gateway between China and the West makes it an ideal location for this institution, which seeks to preserve the past while inspiring future generations.
The museum's debut exhibition exemplifies this mission by blending historical artefacts with modern narratives. Visitors are not only immersed in the rich heritage of the Maritime Silk Road but also invited to reflect on its enduring impact. The combination of ancient treasures and contemporary art creates a dialogue that transcends time and space, making the museum an engaging and educational experience for all. Beyond its exhibitions, the Poly MGM Museum serves as a symbol of Macau's broader ambitions. By hosting world-class cultural events and fostering collaborations with international institutions, the museum positions Macau as a vibrant hub for cultural dialogue. Its innovative approach to storytelling ensures that it resonates with a diverse audience, from local residents to global visitors.
Bridging Heritage and Innovation
The Poly MGM Museum stands at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, embodying a commitment to preserving cultural heritage while embracing the possibilities of the future. Its state-of-the-art facilities and carefully curated exhibitions set a new standard for museums in the region. More than a space for historical artefacts, it is a dynamic venue for education, inspiration and exchange. As Macau continues to evolve as a cultural destination, the museum plays a crucial role in shaping the city's identity. It offers a unique platform for exploring the connections between past and present, fostering a deeper understanding of the shared history that binds humanity.
With its inaugural exhibition celebrating the legacy of the Maritime Silk Road, the Poly MGM Museum invites visitors to embark on a journey through time, exploring the beauty of Chinese heritage and its influence on the world. For Macau, it represents a bold step forward, bridging cultures and creating new opportunities for dialogue and discovery. In every sense, the museum is a testament to the enduring power of art and history to inspire and connect people across generations and geographies. Through its innovative vision and dedication to excellence, the Poly MGM Museum sets a new benchmark for cultural institutions, ensuring that the stories of the past continue to shape the future.
Date: November 2024 to September 2025. Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 11am-7pm; Friday, 11am-9pm; Saturday, Sunday and Public holidays, 10am-8pm. Location: 2F, MGM Macau. Enquiry or reservations, phone (853)-8802-8888, or email: museum@mgm.mo.
