Sacrificial Rites Temple of Mazu
Mazu, also known as Tien-Shang ShengMu (Heavenly Holy Mother), is one of the most important deities in Taiwanese folk religion. Because of her miraculous divine power to help the nation and the people, Mazu was promoted to the status of TienHou (Queen of Heaven) and Tien-Fei (Consort of Heaven) by the emperors of different dynasties.
Status of Mazu in Sacrificial Rites Temple of Mazu
Sacrificial Rites Temple of Mazu (Ta Tien-Hou Kung/ Great Queen of Heaven Temple)ĦA a Grade I historical landmarkĦA was founded in 1664. It was originally the residence of Ming Dynasty Prince Ning Ching. In 1683ĦA Ching troops entered Taiwan led by former general of the Ming Dynasty Shih Lang. Being attributed his success partly to MazuĦA Shih requested pennission from the emperor to worship Matsu officially and ordered to convert the residence into a shrine for the goddess.
After the status of Mazu was promoted by the imperial edict to "Queen of Heaven"ĦA the name of the shrine was changed accordingly to the current Great Queen of Heaven Temple.
The temple had undertaken several significant renovations through various historical periods. Current templeĦA based on the structure rebuilted in 1830ĦA has traditional spatial organization and built form. The constructional elements are delicate and beautiful. Dragon columns located at worship hall are of great significance. The statue of Mazu and her guardian generalsĦA Chien-Li-Yen and ShunFeng-Erh as well as mural paintings on different walls are art masterpieces. In order to memorize Prince Ning-Ching who donated his residence to built the templeĦA the spirit tablet of the king was worshipped at the rear hall.
Sacrificial Rites Temple of Mazu
Dargon Column in Sacrificial Rites Temple of Mazu
