Attraction Guide: Anping Old Fort, Tainan, Taiwan

Anping Old Fort Guide

Anping Old Fort: Witnessing Centuries of History in Tainan Guide

Step back in time at Anping Old Fort, a historical landmark in Tainan, Taiwan, that has witnessed centuries of change and played a significant role in the island's history. Originally built by the Dutch in the 17th century, the fort has been known by various names throughout its existence, including Fort Zeelandia and Fort Orange. Today, it stands as a testament to Taiwan's complex and fascinating past. Anping Old Fort's history is deeply intertwined with the colonial powers that have shaped Taiwan. The Dutch East India Company built the fort in 1624 as a trading post and administrative center. It served as their base of operations until they were driven out by Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong), a Ming dynasty loyalist, in 1662. Koxinga renamed the fort Anping and used it as his base to resist the Qing dynasty. Over the centuries, the fort was damaged, rebuilt, and repurposed by various rulers, including the Qing dynasty and the Japanese. Today, Anping Old Fort is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can explore the remaining structures, including the outer walls, the observation tower, and the historical museum. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the fort and its role in Taiwan's history. Visitors can also climb the observation tower for panoramic views of Anping and the surrounding area. Anping is also famous for its local snacks, such as *shrimp rolls*, *oyster omelets*, and *tofu pudding*. Be sure to sample these culinary delights while exploring the area!