Matsu history

The Legend of the Name and First Mentions

The history of the Matsu Islands is inextricably linked with maritime folklore and spiritual traditions. The archipelago was named in honour of the revered sea goddess Mazu (Lin Moniang). According to local legend, it was to the shores of Nangan Island that the sea carried the body of a young woman who sacrificed herself in a storm to save her father. The inhabitants erected a temple in her honour, and over time, this name became attached to the entire area.

Although fishermen used these islands as a temporary refuge as far back as the Song Dynasty, active and permanent settlement began much later, predominantly during the Ming and Qing dynasties, when residents of the coastal areas of the mainland began to migrate here in large numbers.

Factors of Formation and Development

The formation of settlements on Matsu was determined by a unique combination of geographical and economic conditions:

• Strategic Geography: Located directly at the estuary of the Min River, the islands served as an important transit point and a natural harbour for trading and fishing vessels seeking shelter from bad weather.
• Marine Resources: Waters exceptionally rich in fish attracted fishermen from Fujian Province. Initially seasonal anchorages gradually turned into permanent villages.
• Natural Isolation: The complex terrain and island location contributed to the formation of close-knit communities relying exclusively on their own strength and maritime trade.

Early Culture and Economy

The economic structure of early Matsu was built around the sea: fishing and shellfish gathering were the basis of survival. The cultural code of the region was formed under the direct influence of settlers from the Fuzhou region, creating a unique identity:

• Stone Architecture: Due to frequent typhoons and strong winds, locals developed a special style of construction. Homes were built from granite blocks with thick walls and heavy tiled roofs weighted down with stones, giving the settlements the appearance of fortresses.
• Linguistic Features: Unlike other regions, the Min-Dong (Fuzhou) dialect took root here, which is still preserved by locals today as an important part of their cultural heritage.

Major Historical Milestones

• About 6,000 years ago — Neolithic settlements existed on Liang Island (Liangdao), evidenced by the discovery of the "Liang Island Man".
• Song Dynasty (960–1279) — Fishermen from Fujian Province begin using the islands as a temporary base and shelter from storms.
• Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) — An increase in settlers from the mainland, the formation of the first permanent villages, and battles against sea pirates.
• 19th Century — Mass migration of residents from the Fuzhou region, definitively shaping the linguistic and cultural character of the archipelago.
• 1956 — Introduction of a special field administration regime, turning Matsu into a closed military zone for several decades.
• 1992 — Official lifting of martial law and the beginning of the region's demilitarisation process.
• 1994 — Restoration of civil self-government and the holding of the first elections for the Magistrate of Lienchiang County.
• 1999 — Establishment of the Matsu National Scenic Area to protect natural landscapes and develop tourism.
• 2001 — Launch of the "Mini-Three Links" programme, opening direct ferry services with cities in mainland China for trade and tourism.
• 2012 — Archaeological sensation: discovery of skeletal remains of an ancient human on Liang Island, attracting the attention of scientists worldwide.
• Present Day — Matsu is developing as a popular eco-tourism destination, known for its historic tunnels and the "Blue Tears" natural phenomenon.

Key Stages of Development and Their Significance

The history of Matsu is a journey from quiet fishing villages to an impregnable fortress and, finally, to a unique tourist destination. Each era has left its mark on the architecture, economy, and lifestyle of the islands.

• Transformation into a Military Outpost (1949–1950s)

  With the changing political situation in the region, the archipelago acquired critical strategic importance. This led to a complete restructuring of the urban plan: civil construction was restricted, and priority was given to erecting defensive structures, bunkers, and underground tunnels (such as the famous Beihai Tunnel), which forever changed the landscape of the islands.

• Period of Field Administration and Infrastructure Growth (1956–1992)

  The introduction of military administration limited the freedoms of local residents but spurred the development of basic infrastructure. The military built roads, reservoirs, and power stations that did not exist previously. The economy during this period depended entirely on servicing the garrison: shops, laundries, and eateries operated exclusively for the needs of the soldiers.

• Lifting of Martial Law and Return of Self-Government (1992–1994)

  The removal of restrictions was a turning point for the social sphere. Residents gained the right to move freely and develop private enterprises unrelated to military needs. This marked the beginning of the formation of civil society and a gradual transition from a "soldier's economy" to a market economy.

• Creation of the National Scenic Area (1999)

  This status radically changed the approach to urban planning. Active conservation and restoration of traditional stone villages (for example, Qinbi on Beigan Island), which had previously fallen into decay, began. Tourism was officially recognised as a priority direction for development, attracting government investment in landscaping and amenities.

• Launch of the "Mini-Three Links" (2001)

  The opening of direct ferry services with Fujian Province (mainland China) brought Matsu out of economic isolation. The archipelago became an important transit hub for trade and tourism, revitalising local business and strengthening cultural ties with the ancestral homeland of most islanders.

• Rebranding: From "Front Line" to Eco-Resort (2010s – Present)

  In recent years, the focus has shifted to ecology and art. The "Blue Tears" phenomenon (bioluminescence) has become a global brand. Former military facilities are being repurposed into art spaces and cafes, creating a unique tourism product that combines rugged military history with natural beauty.

Architectural Appearance: Granite and Concrete

The urban development of Matsu differs radically from the rest of Taiwan. There is almost no influence of Japanese colonial architecture or Baroque here. The appearance of the archipelago is formed by two powerful factors: the cultural tradition of the Fuzhou region (mainland China) and the strategic military necessity of the second half of the 20th century.

Traditional Min-Dong Style (Eastern Min)

Historical buildings characteristic of the settlement period of the islands (Ming and Qing dynasties) up to the mid-20th century. This style is dictated by the climate and the need for protection against pirates.

• Stone Fortress Houses: The main material is local granite. Walls were built thick and massive. The type of masonry indicated wealth: "herringbone" or chaotic masonry for simple houses, smooth rectangular blocks for the wealthy.
• "Breathing" Roofs: A unique feature of Matsu. Roof tiles were not sealed with mortar but weighed down with heavy stones. This allowed elements to be easily replaced and protected the roof from being blown away by strong monsoon winds.
• High Windows: Window openings were located high above the ground, making the house impregnable to sudden raids.
• "Fire-Sealing" Walls: Curved gables of buildings, resembling waves, served not only as decoration but also as a fire barrier in dense settlements.

Iconic Site: The village of Qinbi on Beigan Island is the best-preserved architectural ensemble in the Min-Dong style, often referred to as the "Mediterranean of Matsu".

Era of Military Fortification (1950–1990s)

The imposition of martial law turned the islands into an impregnable fortress. Civil construction was frozen, and the landscape changed to suit defence needs. The style of this period can be characterised as military functionalism.

• Underground Urbanism: Key infrastructure facilities, warehouses, and even boat docks were moved underground, into tunnels carved into the rocks.
• Camouflage Design: Above-ground structures, forts, and observation posts were built of reinforced concrete and camouflaged to match the natural terrain.
• Propaganda Aesthetic: A characteristic feature became monumental slogans carved directly onto cliffs or cast in concrete on building facades.

Iconic Sites: The Beihai Tunnel (a grandiose underground structure) and the Iron Fort, built into a reef.

Modern Stage: Revitalisation and Eco-Adaptation

Since the late 1990s, after the islands opened to tourism, the architectural vector has shifted towards heritage preservation and adaptive reuse.

• Restoration: Old stone villages, abandoned by residents during urbanisation, are being restored using traditional technologies to create guest houses.
• Conversion: Former military bunkers and strongholds are being converted into cafes, galleries, and viewing platforms, creating a contrast between rugged concrete and modern comfort.

Historical Personalities and Legendary Figures

The history of the Matsu archipelago is closely intertwined with the fates of maritime deities, pirates, military commanders, and local leaders who shaped the unique character of these islands.

• Lin Moniang (Goddess Mazu)
  Celestial Patroness of Seafarers

  A central figure in the history and culture of the archipelago. According to legend, the sea brought the body of the young woman Lin Moniang, who died saving her father during a storm, to the shore of Nangan Island. Locals buried her and erected a temple, and later the entire archipelago was named after her. Today, a giant statue of Mazu on Nangan Island serves as the main symbol of the region.

• Lin Yi-he
  Militia Commander, Local Leader (20th Century)

  An influential and controversial figure of the 1930s–1940s. In an era of anarchy and war with Japan, he organised self-defence forces (the "National Salvation Army"), effectively governing the region. His headquarters on Nangan Island — the "Lin Yi-he House" — is today a popular historical site, showcasing the lifestyle and architecture of that era.

• Cai Qian
  Pirate Leader (Qing Era)

  A famous "Sea King" who operated in the Taiwan Strait in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The rugged coastline of Matsu served as an ideal hiding place for his fleet. Legends of treasures hidden by him still live in local folklore, and his activities contributed to turning the islands into an important maritime hub.

• Chen Zhongping
  Merchant, Founder of a Dynasty (19th-20th Century)

  One of the most famous residents of Qinbi village (Beigan Island). Being a successful merchant (and, rumoured to be connected with maritime trade of various kinds), he amassed a significant fortune. It was thanks to his investments that the most luxurious stone houses in Qinbi were built, which today form the postcard view of "Mediterranean" Matsu.

• Chiang Ching-kuo
  Political and Military Leader (20th Century)

  Although not a native of the islands, his influence on the modern appearance of Matsu is immense. During the Cold War, he frequently visited the archipelago for inspections. It was on his orders that massive projects were initiated to carve underground tunnels (such as the Beihai Tunnel) to shelter the naval fleet, which have today become major tourist attractions.