Hua Residence Settlement (Zhongsha Village) Introduction
Hua Zhai Settlement is one of the best-preserved traditional settlements in the Penghu area. Over 300 years ago, Han immigrants arrived here and observed the landscape; surrounded by hills, it resembled petals surrounding a flower center. Thus, they built homes near the flower center (Shanzaiwei Peak), giving it the name "Hua Zhai." Geographically, it is located in the central part of the four villages on the main island of Wang-an Township, and was renamed "Zhongshe." Due to outmigration, the population declined, and the ancient houses fell into disrepair. In 2005, the residents of Hua Zhai established the "Taiwan Hua Zhai Settlement Ancient House Preservation Association" to attract government attention. Subsequently, the Penghu County Government announced it as "Wang-an Hua Zhai Settlement" and further applied to the Cultural Affairs Council to register it as an "Important Settlement." Currently, a redevelopment plan is being formulated. Among the ancient houses in Hua Zhai, the most eye-catching is the Zeng Family Ancient House, characterized by its window shaped like a scroll, which resembles the Microsoft registered trademark. Additionally, the red-brick window lattice forming the character "Zeng" is playfully akin to a password for powering on. This restoration was funded by the descendants of the Zeng family, preserving the heritage of their ancestors. A popular filming location features the lines from the "Browns Coffee Penghu Edition" advertisement: "Look back, the steps of youth are not far; look ahead, the flavors of life are richer; gaze toward the truth of life." Accompanied by piano music and children's laughter, light and dancer's movements intertwine, with windmills, ancient houses, green trees, and dahlias. The cheerful laughter and shy smiles of youth, the mottled stone walls etched with history, the blue sea, sky, red flowers, and white waves are all the colors of Penghu. The advertisement "Canon EOS 650D - Penghu Edition" showcases the play of light and shadow in alleys and on ancient houses, indicating that this is one of the most cherished scenarios for photographers.
A corner of Huazai Settlement
Traditional Zhongshe Historical House
