ANCESTOR'S TEMPLE

Foshan's Ancestral Temple (祖庙), also known as Zumiao, is an iconic Taoist edifice located in the heart of the city. Founded between 1078 and 1085 during the Song dynasty, it was rebuilt in 1372 after being damaged at the end of the Yuan dynasty. Enlarged or renovated more than twenty times since then, it is now one of the richest and most fascinating temples in the region. The temple is dedicated to Beidi, the God of the North, a Taoist deity believed to govern the waters of Guangdong.

On entering the temple, one immediately notices the bronze statues of mythical animals, such as the one-horned buffalo and the toad, which were immersed in water to protect the city from the frequent flooding in the Pearl River region. Further on, a hall houses a statue of the Northern Emperor, revered for his ability to regulate rainfall. In the past, this statue was brought out only once a year, during a grand parade in his honor.

The complex covers some 25,000 m² and comprises several remarkable structures, including the main temple, the Confucius Temple (built in 1911), as well as halls dedicated to the great figures of kung fu: the Huang Feihong Memorial Hall and the Ip Man Hall. The temple is adorned with detailed ceramic frescoes depicting scenes of life, floral motifs and historical events such as the Opium Wars, testifying to Chinese resentment of foreigners at the time. A stone column is also a reminder of the agreements signed with foreign powers during the Qing dynasty, in which foreigners are depicted in caricature, illustrating the contempt in which they were held.

The turtle pond, with its peaceful atmosphere, is another must-see feature of the temple. Just behind it, a stage still hosts Cantonese opera performances, a local tradition where spectators enjoy tea and snacks while watching the show. The temple also houses a Chinese Opera Museum, where traditional costumes and stage props are on display.

The Temple of the Ancestors is a lively cultural center, hosting Taoist ceremonies, opera performances and martial arts demonstrations all year round. Its architecture, rich history and unique atmosphere make it a must-see for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in Guangdong's heritage. It attracts millions of national and international visitors every year.