Qihou Church Introduction
Cijin, due to its important geographical location as a harbor export, is the earliest area developed by Han immigrants in Kaohsiung, featuring the oldest streets, temples, and schools in the city. After the Qing Dynasty's conflict with the Anglo-French Alliance in 1865, Dagu Harbor (Kaohsiung Harbor) was opened for trade, and Scottish Presbyterian missionary Dr. Mackay came here to preach and established the Dagu Church, which is the earliest and also the first Presbyterian church in Taiwan. In 1935, the church was renovated into a Romanesque-style building, with its yellow-brown pebbled exterior being simple and elegant, creating a tranquil corner amidst the bustling Cijin market, shared by many as a fond memory of Cijin. Due to years of wear, the structure of the old church suffered damage, and the Cijin Church, which has been established for over a hundred years, was rebuilt in 2013. It retains the arches and window sills of the old church while adding a Gothic-style spire, becoming a magnificent seven-story building. In response to the influx of tourists in Cijin, Cijin Church has also promoted tourist evangelism, opening its doors for visits, providing drinking water and sanitation facilities, and offering diverse activities for people of all ages to participate. Inside the serene church, there is a model of the old church for reminiscence, allowing visitors to bask in the religious atmosphere and enjoy a moment of peace and beauty.
