National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Introduction
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is dedicated to the first President of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-shek, who passed away in 1975. The construction of the memorial hall began the following year, initiated by the Executive Yuan, and was designed by Yang Cho-cheng, who also designed the Grand Hotel Taipei. The original site was the headquarters of the Army, which was the largest military district in Taipei at the time. It is said that gold transported from the mainland was once stored in this location. The colors of blue and white used in the memorial hall are the primary colors of the national flag, and the dome is adorned with twelve rays of sunlight symbolizing the Blue Sky with a White Sun. The statue faces west toward the Presidential Office and mainland China, both of which hold special significance. With the advancement of democracy and greater openness in thought, the square in front of the memorial hall has become a gathering place for democratic movements. On either side of the Memorial Hall are the National Concert Hall and the National Theater. The theater serves as a venue for dramatic and dance performances, frequently hosting large-scale events including Peking opera, dramas, and children's programs; the concert hall is Taiwan's premier space for musical performances, often featuring chamber music and symphonic concerts. The plaza in front of both venues also hosts occasional dramatic and musical events, attracting many visitors. With its white walls and blue tiles, the structure stands 70 meters tall in the center of the memorial park and is impressive from any angle. No matter how tourists schedule their trips to Taiwan, they will inevitably visit this place. Beneath the memorial hall, there are displays and exhibitions, as well as a gift shop.
