Matsu Jing Tian Hou Temple Introduction
The Matsu Jin Tian Hou Palace is the most magnificent and popular temple in the Matsu region, also known as the Ma Gang Tian Hou Palace. The temple's pillars are made of over 4,000 Dou-shaped wooden blocks. According to historical records, it was built during the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty, and it has been renovated approximately every 20 years. The current temple, reconstructed in 2002, is a palace-style building that is grand and solemn, combining craftsmanship from the mainland and other regions. The decorations, including the dragon-column stone carvings and relief door gods, are exquisite and sophisticated. The stone coffin in front of the offering table inside the temple is said to be the resting place of Mazu's sacred body. Each year, on the lunar birthday of Mazu, grand celebrations and pilgrimage activities are held. The vibrant night filled with lights and the continuous sound of firecrackers create a rich temple fair atmosphere, making it a significant local event. In March 2009, Matsu native painter and mountaineer Li Xiaoshi took Mazu's golden statue to the summit of Mount Everest, making it the first deity to reach the peak, and the statue is now enshrined in the Matsu Jin Tian Hou Palace for worship. The Matsu Jin Tian Hou Palace serves as a guardian deity for the local Matsu people and is the center of belief for island residents. When visiting Nangan, be sure not to forget to pray for peace here! In Matsu, the residents of Nangan Matsu Village pass down the story that when Mazu's father encountered a shipwreck, she jumped into the sea to save him but was unfortunately swallowed by the fierce waves. Her body drifted to the bay in Matsu Village, and the residents discovered and buried her. In gratitude for her filial piety, they intricately carved a stone coffin with phoenix patterns for her burial. During her lifetime, Mazu was a kind individual and benefited from the local spirit, achieving immortality on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. During the Ming Dynasty, Mazu was granted the title of Tian Fei, and during the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty, she was upgraded to Tian Hou, which is another name for the Holy Mother in Heaven, hence the temple dedicated to Mazu is named Tian Hou Palace. Matsu Sword Monument - A must-take photo spot and one of Matsu's landmarks. Not far from the Matsu Jin Tian Hou Palace stands a towering sword monument, also known as the "Sword of Matsu." The monument exudes a strong masculine aura and was once an important spiritual fortress in the defense zone. It has now become a prominent tourist landmark. When visiting Nangan Matsu Village, don’t forget to take a photo as a remembrance!
