LONGSHAN TEMPLE

Little remains of the original temple built in 1638 by Fujian immigrants in honor of Guanyin. The Longshan temple has been rebuilt three times. In 1815, it collapsed following an earthquake; in 1867, it was damaged by a typhoon; and in 1945, it fell victim to Allied bombs. This last catastrophe seriously damaged the whole structure, except for the statue of Guanyin, which miraculously survived unscathed. Restoration by Taiwan's greatest masters was completed in 1957.

The temple of Longshan, or Dragon Mountain, was so named because of the many dragons that crown its roof or wrap themselves around its pillars, protecting the divinity. Disasters have not dampened the fervor surrounding this temple, arguably the most famous in Taiwan.

In the square in front of the temple, old people play mahjong, dance or chat under the amused gaze of passers-by. For the history it embodies and the symbols it represents, Longshan Temple is a must-see in Taipei, in the heart of a district that bears witness to what the city was like before the economic miracle, and which is being reborn thanks to tourism and Taiwanese interest in things past. Dragon sculptures, lanterns and floral offerings contribute to a unique atmosphere, making every visit memorable. The traditional festivities that take place here always attract large numbers of devotees and tourists, who come to discover the cultural riches of this emblematic place.