Macao boasts socio-cultural roots dating back to the 16th century, which have been well preserved and proudly upheld by its residents. At the exhibition spaces of Campo della Tana, directly across from the entrance to the Arsenale, Macao takes center stage once again at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition with a Collateral Event that focuses on the existence of multiple “cities within the city”—distinct and deeply different from one another, yet able to coexist in a harmony that is difficult to imagine or find elsewhere in today’s global context. These include historic Macao (World 1), the casino city (World 2), the new city of Hengqin (World 3), and a vision of Macao as a cashless city (World 4).

Parallel Worlds, curated by Chinese architects Wang Shu and Lu Wenyu, explores the architectural and social aspects of this urban coexistence. Organized by Macao’s Cultural Affairs Bureau and realized by the Macao Museum of Art with MGM’s support, the exhibition is divided into two parts. The first features urban photographs of Macao by Iwan Baan: it showcases the city’s contrasts and is complemented by an impactful installation outside the exhibition space. The second part is a collaborative study between the China Academy of Art and the University of Saint Joseph, Macao, and explores creative possibilities between Macao and the world, aligning with Carlo Ratti’s theme.

The exhibition celebrates the concept of coexistence, demonstrating a process developed over time, inspired by Macao’s influence on many Asian cities. The interaction between seemingly distant worlds can spark creative forces, fostering inclusion without altering the contexts, but rather enhancing their potential through architecture.

Featured image: © Parallel Worlds