Eternal Golden Castle, Tainan

The Eternal Golden Castle, a resolute fortress standing in the historical city of Tainan, Taiwan, is a testament to the rich military heritage of the region. Built during the Qing Dynasty in 1874 under the reign of Emperor Tongzhi, this fortification was conceived as a defensive bulwark against the Japanese forces following the Mudan Incident of 1871.

Constructed with the expertise of French military engineer Prosper Giquel, the castle features robust walls and a moat, characteristic of the era's military architecture. The fort's design integrates traditional Chinese fortification elements with Western-style bastions, a fusion that underlines the cross-cultural exchanges of the time.

Spanning an area of approximately 50,000 square meters, the Eternal Golden Castle was equipped to house a garrison of soldiers and an array of cannons. Its strategic location was pivotal in safeguarding the southwestern coast of Taiwan. Despite its formidable appearance, the fort never saw battle, as the anticipated Japanese invasion never materialized.

Today, the Eternal Golden Castle stands as a historic site open to the public. Visitors can stroll along the ramparts, explore the restored cannons, and absorb the tranquil ambiance of the surrounding park. The fort's museum provides an in-depth look into its history and the broader military developments of the time.