Fort San Domingo Introduction
The Octagon Tower was completed in 1925 and serves as the spiritual stronghold of Tamkang High School, representing the architecture of the Mackay era. The building was originally named "Faith, Hope, and Love Tower" and was designed by Mr. K. Doawie, a mathematics teacher and missionary at the time. The architectural style drew inspiration from prestigious schools in the UK and the US, combining both Eastern and Western elements while also incorporating local Taiwanese architectural features. The layout follows a traditional Sanheyuan (three-section compound) style. The main tower rises 60 feet, flanked by two-story wings, with classrooms gradually descending along the two wings. The front classrooms are capped with a wing tower, and there is a balcony at the front, with corridors on both sides. The three towers surround a lush front yard, accessed via a palm-lined path leading to the main entrance. The main entrance features a Guanyin stone as a lintel, intricately carved with bird replacements and lanterns, highlighting Chinese aesthetics. Above the lintel of the Octagon Tower, there are the calligraphic characters "Faith, Hope, and Love" by Wu Ting-fang, representing the school motto at the time of establishment. The entrance originally displayed the name "Tamshui High School" in clerical script, which was re-carved into "Private Tamshui High School" during the Japanese occupation period. Additionally, two rows of Alexander palms were planted along the front path, and a second floor was added to the east wing. In 1956, after the merger of the male and female schools, a second floor was also added to the west wing, giving it its present appearance. This charming building not only shapes a refined academic atmosphere for Tamkang High School but also provides an inspiring and nurturing environment for cultivating humanistic qualities. It has become one of the most romantic filming locations for various advertisements today. A friendly reminder: If the public wishes to visit, please make a reservation through the official website of Tamkang Senior High School before visiting!
