Flag Hill Church Introduction
Cijin, due to its important geographical location as a harbor export, was the first area developed by Han Chinese in Kaohsiung, featuring the city's earliest streets, temples, and schools. After the Qing Dynasty's engagement with the Anglo-French forces in 1865, the Port of Takao (Kaohsiung Port) was opened for trade. Scottish Presbyterian missionary Dr. James Laidlaw Maxwell also came here to spread the gospel and established the Takao Presbyterian Church, which is the oldest and the first Presbyterian church in Taiwan. In 1935, the church was rebuilt in a Romanesque style, with a brownish-yellow washed stone exterior that is both rustic and elegant. Nestled within the bustling Cijin market, it serves as a tranquil oasis and a shared memory for many. Due to the wear and tear over the years, the structure of the old church suffered damage. The church, which has been around for over a century, underwent reconstruction in 2013, retaining the arches and window sills of the old church while adding a Gothic-style spire, transforming it into a magnificent seven-story building. In response to the influx of tourists to Cijin, the church has also promoted tourism-related activities, opening its doors for visits, providing drinking water and sanitary facilities, and offering diverse activities for people of all ages. Entering the serene church, visitors can reminisce with models of the old church and soak in the religious atmosphere, enjoying moments of peace and beauty.
