Tiefort Introduction
A must-visit attraction in Matsu for a tour of battle sites is the Iron Fortress. To deeply experience the military atmosphere of Matsu, visitors should include the Iron Fortress in their travel itinerary! Located at the independent reef by the seashore in Ren'ai Village, you can immediately feel the somber atmosphere of a battleground. The terrain here is rugged and ideal for observing the sea, which is why it was established as a military outpost in the past, guarded day and night by an elite amphibious frogman unit along the western coastline. Due to the defensive needs, the interior of the reef was hollowed out, covered with concrete bunkers, painted in camouflage, and equipped with grass green protective nets. Additionally, shards of glass and iron bars were inserted into the cliffside to prevent enemy infiltration and ambushes, standing firm amidst the waves. Inside the Iron Fortress, beneath the concrete walkway, is a hollowed-out tunnel. The hard granite walls clearly show the tool marks from excavation. On both sides of the passageway, you can see the remnants of underground stone chambers, shooting ports, bunkers, rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, all neatly arranged. Though small, it is fully equipped. In the past, due to its remote location, it was also defended by military dogs, which were the only armed canines in the area. Climbing up the tunnel to the top, one can enjoy a complete view of the sea and also see the quarters for the military dogs. Today, with the smoke of war in the past, this small reef, once a coastal fortress, still exudes the spirit of "iron-blooded bravery and maritime strongholds."
