Matsu Jingtian Temple Introduction
Matsu Jin Tian Hou Temple is the most grand and popular temple in the Matsu region, also known as Matsu Port Tian Hou Temple. The temple features over 4,000 Dou-shaped wooden blocks at its pillars, and according to historical records, it was built during the Jiaqing era of the Qing Dynasty. It is repaired approximately every 20 years, and the current structure was newly built in 2002, featuring palace-style architecture that is majestic and solemn. Craftsmen from across the Taiwan Strait worked together to complete it, with exquisite decorations such as dragon pillar stone carvings and reliefs of door gods. The stone coffin in front of the offering table is said to be the resting place of Mazu's sacred body. Every year on Mazu's lunar birthday, grand celebrations and pilgrimages take place, with the temple aglow and the sound of firecrackers filling the air, making it a major event for the local community. In March 2009, Matsu-born painter and mountaineer Li Xiaoshi took Mazu's golden statue up Mount Everest, making her the first deity to reach the summit. The statue is now enshrined in Matsu Jin Tian Hou Temple for devotees to worship. Matsu Jin Tian Hou Temple is the guardian deity of the Matsu region and the center of faith for the island's residents. The temple is bustling with activity, and visitors to Nangan should not forget to come here to pay their respects for safety! According to residents of Mazu Village in Nangan, when Mazu's father encountered a shipwreck, she threw herself into the sea to rescue him but unfortunately was swallowed by the rough waves. Her body was found by the villagers and buried with care, and to honor her filial piety, they carved a stone coffin adorned with phoenix patterns for her burial. Mazu was a virtuous person in life and benefited from the land's spirit, ascending to heaven on the ninth day of the ninth month. During the Ming Dynasty, Mazu was granted the title of Tianfei and during the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty, she was promoted to Tianhou, which is another name for the Holy Mother of Heaven. Thus, temples dedicated to Mazu are named Tian Hou Temple. Matsu Sword Monument - One of the must-take photos at Matsu. Not far from Matsu Jin Tian Hou Temple stands a towering sword monument, also known as "The Sword of Matsu." The monument exudes a strong masculine spirit and was once an important spiritual fortress in the defense area but has now become a prominent tourist landmark. When in Nangan Mazu Village, don't forget to take a photo for the memories!
