ANCESTOR'S TEMPLE

This temple definitely deserves a visit. It is far from the finest temple in the region and the richest in the amount of works it holds. Built from 1078 to 1085 during the North Song dynasty, it has been enlarged or rebuilt more than twenty times since. When entering the temple, notice the bronze statues of mythical animals: buffalo to a horn and toad that was immersed in water to guard against the many devastating floods in the Pearl River region. Later in one of the halls of the temple, you can see also a statue of the emperor of the north, or Emperor of Jade, revered because he would regulate rainfall. He was only released on his birthday during a big parade. Alongside mythical animals, a stone column recalls the agreements signed in the region with foreigners under the Qing dynasty. Foreigners are represented as deformed dwarves or with a long nose showing the Chinese contempt for them. Stroll through the temple and its different halls. You will not miss the remarkable ceramic frescoes adorning the roofs or simply exposed. There were once many houses in the city occupied by wealthy Chinese merchants. They represent bucolic scenes with animals or plants, scenes of daily life, or recall events that have marked the region, particularly during the Opium Wars, the Chinese shrug against foreigners. Also beautiful bronzes and mirrors, carved wooden frescoes. Don't miss the very harmonious turtle pool. Behind, a show where Chinese opera pieces took place and still take place. Note the tables arranged before. Indeed, the Chinese habit of eating and drinking while admiring the show. The temple also houses the Chinese Opera Museum, including the different costumes of classical characters.