Anping Old Fort: A Historic Military Stronghold in Taiwan
Nestled in the coastal city of Tainan in southern Taiwan lies Anping Old Fort, a historic military stronghold that has stood the test of time. Built in 1624 by the Dutch East India Company, the fort has witnessed centuries of conflict and is now a protected archaeological site.
Anping Old Fort is an impressive example of the fortifications constructed by the Dutch to protect their trading posts in Taiwan. Constructed on the site of a former Ming Dynasty fortress, the walls of Anping Old Fort are constructed of brick and stone, and its four bastions are built in a square shape.
Inside the fort, visitors will find a museum that showcases the history of the fort, as well as artifacts from the period when the Dutch occupied Taiwan. There is also a small pond that was once used to provide a source of fresh water for the garrison.
What to See at Anping Old Fort
Anping Old Fort is a popular tourist attraction for visitors to Tainan, and is a great place to explore the city’s history. Visitors can explore the fort’s interior and exterior, as well as the surrounding park which is a great place to take in the views of the harbor and the city skyline.
Inside the fort, visitors will find the Anping Tree House, a unique structure built around the branches of a banyan tree. The tree house was built in the 1930s by a local resident, and is now a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
Also inside the fort is the Anping Old Fort Museum. The museum is split into four sections, each dedicated to a different aspect of the fort’s history. The four sections include the Dutch period, the Qing Dynasty, the Japanese period, and the modern period.
Visitors can also explore the surrounding park, which is a great place to relax and take in the views of the harbor and the city skyline. The park also features a number of monuments, including a memorial to the victims of the Japanese occupation.
Best Time to Visit Anping Old Fort
Anping Old Fort is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between October and April. During these months, the weather is milder and there is less rain.
The fort is located in the heart of Tainan and is easily reached by public transportation. The nearest train station is Anping Station, which is a few minutes’ walk from the fort.
Conclusion
Anping Old Fort is an important part of Taiwan’s history and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tainan. Visitors can explore the fort’s interior and exterior, as well as the surrounding park which is a great place to take in the views of the harbor and the city skyline. The best time to visit Anping Old Fort is between October and April.