The Macau Fortress is part of the oldest surviving Western-style fort building complex in China. It used to be the centre of military defence facilities. It is now part of the historic city of Macau and is a famous tourist attraction. The large artillery platform of Macau is located on the side of the Dabanba archway. The artillery platform was built during the Ming Shenzong period in 1616. It was owned by the church and was built to protect the St. Paul's clerics. It was used to defend against pirates and then turned into a military facility area. There are giant steel guns around the fort. Although the ancient artillery has lost its military role, it has become an ancient cultural relic and historical witness of Macao. The large turret covers an area of about 10,000 square meters. It was originally the memorial platform of the Jesuit Church of St. Paul (the predecessor of the Ruins of St. Paul), which protected the Jesuit industry in Macao and was later converted into a large castle fort by the Australian and Portuguese governments. The construction of the Grand Fortress lasted 10 years and was completed in 1626.