Penghu Mazu Temple Introduction
Penghu Tianhou Temple is the oldest Mazu temple in the history of the Penghu region. The stone tablet preserved in the temple from the 32nd year of the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty (1604), which bears the inscription "Shen Yourong orders the expulsion of the red-haired Waimalang," serves as evidence; this tablet is also the first stone tablet in the area. Throughout the years, the temple has been referred to by various names such as Niangma Temple, Niangniang Temple, Tianfei Temple, and Mazu Temple. The old local name for Magong, Ma Gong, originates from Mazu Temple. In the 22nd year of the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty (1683), Fujian naval commander Shi Lang led his troops to attack Penghu, defeating Zheng army general Liu Guoxuan. Shi Lang reported to the Qing emperor that the reason for his smooth victory was due to the blessings of Mazu, requesting a higher title for her. The Qing court granted his request, and the following year, Mazu was officially conferred the title Tianhou. Since the Qing Dynasty, the Mazu temple has undergone numerous renovations. In the 11th year of the Taisho era during Japanese rule (1922), it was rebuilt and transformed 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 courtyards, and corridors connect them, while the temple's layout gradually elevates according to the topography. The temple square was formerly a market in front of the temple during the era of the Seven Streets and One Market.
Penghu Tianhou Temple Lantern Festival
Penghu Mazu Temple
