Penghu Tianhou Temple Introduction
Penghu Tianhou Temple is the oldest Mazu temple in the history of Penghu and Taiwan, evidenced by the stone tablet preserved in the temple that records the decree from Ming Emperor Shenzong in the 32nd year of Wanli (1604) ordering the expulsion of the red-haired barbarians led by Wei Malang. This tablet is also the first stone tablet in Penghu and Taiwan. Historically, the temple has been referred to by various names including Niangma Temple, Niangniang Temple, Tianfei Temple, and Mazu Temple. The old name of Magong, Ma Gong, originates from Mazu Temple. In the 22nd year of the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty (1683), Fujian Navy Commander Shi Lang led troops to attack Penghu, defeating Zheng's general Liu Guoxuan. Shi Lang reported to the Qing Emperor that his victory was due to the divine assistance of Mazu and requested an elevation for her. The Qing court granted the request, and the following year Mazu was formally conferred the title of Tianhou. Since the Qing Dynasty, the temple has undergone several renovations, with a significant rebuilding in the 11th year of the Taisho era during Japanese rule (1922), transforming Tianhou Temple into its current majestic appearance. The architectural structure of Tianhou Temple consists of the San Chuan Hall, the Main Hall, and the Qingfeng Pavilion. These sections are separated by a courtyard and connected by dragon guardians and corridors, with the temple's layout gradually rising according to the geographical terrain. The temple courtyard used to serve as the market for the seven streets in the area.
Penghu Tianhou Temple Lantern Festival
Penghu Mazu Temple
