Shuangli Ancient Earth God Temple Introduction
Gu Ning Tou, also known as Gu Long Tou or Jia Li Tou, includes Nan Shan, Bei Shan, and Lin Cuo. In the past, there was a bay where seawater meandered between Nan Shan and Bei Shan, resembling a pair of koi fish biting each other's tails in reverse, hence named Shuang Li Lake. A small sandbar surfaces between the lake and the sea, resembling a lotus flower emerging from the water. Surveyors said it looked like two koi welcoming a pearl, so a temple called "Shuang Li Ancient Land" was built here, dedicating itself to Guan Yu as the local deity, alongside Guan Ping and Zhou Cheng, worshipped by the people of Nan Shan, Bei Shan, and Lin Cuo. The temple was first built in the 13th year of the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty and was renovated in the 16th year of the Republic of China. During the 823 Artillery Battle, numerous shells landed nearby, yet the Shuang Li Ancient Land Temple stood tall and undamaged, further highlighting its sacred significance. It underwent renovations in the 63rd and 73rd years of the Republic of China and was recently completed in the 97th year, enhancing the temple's glorious appearance. Couplets: Main entrance couplet: "Two koi welcoming pearls shine upon Jia Li; Ancient dragon coiling to bless and protect the peaceful township." Column couplet one: "Before the temple, Shuang Li Lake's light reflects loyal hearts and righteous spirits; In the three villages within the area, incense offerings honor the merits and grace of the deity." Column couplet two: "Two peaks originate from the majestic mountain spirit, resounding the ancient land; Koi city divides the majestic deity's protection over the peaceful township." Column couplet three: "Completing great integrity with loyal and steadfast names renowned in the Three Kingdoms; Upholding legitimacy and manifesting trustworthiness, astonishing the nine provinces."
