Baimawan Temple of Literature and Martial Arts Introduction
The Bai Ma Wen Wu Da Wang Temple, located by the coast of Keti Harbor, is a beautiful representation of traditional art with its calm yet vibrant aesthetics. Keti Harbor is a small bay to the north of Matsu Village, where fishing boats from the Tiebang and Jinsha areas come to seek shelter during the summer southern winds. The temple is dedicated to two deities, Wen Wu Da Wang, which are distinct from the commonly known Bai Ma Zun Wang who rides a white horse. According to legend, during the Guangxu era of the Qing Dynasty, two corpses floated ashore at Keti Harbor, and the villagers buried them. Shortly after, Wen Wu Da Wang, through a medium dedicated to Prince Pan, directed the construction of the temple. After its completion, whenever a storm was imminent, a light would appear, moving across the harbor to warn fishing boats to return to safety. This divine protection has strengthened the villagers' faith. The temple is built in the style of the volcanic wall architecture typical of Eastern Fujian, featuring a compact and exquisite exterior. The gray stone bricks combined with vibrant and flowing lines on the gable strike a balance of stability and prominence, beautifully reflecting the essence of traditional art.
