Atop Meizhou Island in Fujian Province, southeastern China, stands a majestic statue of Mazu, the revered sea goddess worshipped by coastal communities across Asia. This iconic landmark, overlooking the vast expanse of the sea, draws countless visitors each year who come to pay homage and seek blessings for safe voyages.
What many may not realize is that this statue is part of a pair. Its twin stands on the island of Taiwan, crowning the Mazu Culture Tower at Chaotian Temple in Beigang. These two statues gaze across the Taiwan Strait, symbolizing the shared cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions that connect the people on both sides.
The story of how these two statues came to face each other across the sea is a testament to the enduring ties and reverence for Mazu. The goddess, believed to protect sailors and fishermen, has been a unifying figure for centuries, embodying hope, faith, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Reference(s):
The Journey of the Goddess | The story of the Mazu stone statues
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