Matteo Ricci Guide, Meaning , Facts, Information and Description
Matteo Ricci (October 6 1552 - May 11 1610) was an Italian Jesuit priest whose missionary activity in China during the Ming Dynasty marked the beginning of modern Chinese Christianity. His introduction of western science, material, and philosophy inspired some traditional Confucianist literati and officials. His writings also introduced many aspects of China to Europe; he portrayed China in a generally favorable light.
Ricci arrived in south China in 1582, and at Beijing in 1601, where he presented himself at the Imperial court of Wanli.
Life magazine named Ricci one of the 100 most important people of the last millennium.
He took the Chinese name of Li Madou (利瑪竇).
See also: Religion in China