Mazu Stone Statue Introduction
Matsu is not only named after “Mazu,” but it has also become a new landmark that visitors must visit since the world's tallest Mazu stone statue was completed. On October 25, 2009, the Tianhou Temple in Magang, Nangan Township, Matsu, held the annual “Mazu Ascension Festival,” where local dignitaries officiated the unveiling ceremony for the Mazu stone statue, which stands at 29.6 meters and is entirely made of granite. Many people may wonder why this statue is 29.6 meters tall instead of a round number like 30 meters. There is a significant meaning behind this. The height of 29.6 meters beautifully corresponds with Matsu's total area of 29.6 square kilometers. The stone statue is composed of 365 pieces of granite, symbolizing peace for all 365 days of the year. This not only pays tribute to Mazu's filial piety when she saved her father from drowning but also reflects the deep faith of the Matsu people in Mazu. Furthermore, it symbolizes that Mazu will protect the citizens and lands of Matsu for generations to come. Additionally, it reinforces the “Mazu in Matsu” tourism slogan emphasized by the Lienchiang County government, providing a stronger marketing message. Moreover, the nearby Tianhou Temple houses the only Mazu spiritual site and also enshrines a statue of Mazu carried up Mount Everest by the mountaineer Xiaoshi Li, which is a must-see.
