Matsu Tianhou Temple
Main Deities
About
Matsu Tianhou Temple, overlooking Matsu Harbor in Nangan, is the most important religious center in the Matsu Islands and the only temple in the world with the 'Spiritual Cave of Mazu' — believed to be where Mazu's body was buried. Legend says Mazu drowned while searching for her father at sea, and her body drifted to this shore. The Matsu Islands were named after the goddess. The annual 'Mazu Ascension Festival' on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month is the islands' grandest religious event.
History
The founding date is unknown, but the site has been inhabited since the Song Dynasty. Historical records from 'Sanshan Zhi' mention Nangan as 'Shang Gan Tang.' The temple has been rebuilt multiple times, with documented renovations in 1943 and 1963. In 2001, the old temple was demolished and rebuilt in the style of the Meizhou Mazu ancestral temple.
Matsu Tianhou Temple
Nangan Township, Lienchiang County
Visitor Info
Address
No. 4, Matsu Village, Nangan Township, Lienchiang County
Region
Nangan Township, Lienchiang County