aeeble

Matsu is not only named after the deity Mazu but has also become a must-visit landmark following the completion of the world's tallest granite Mazu statue. On October 25, 2009, the annual "Mazu Ascension Day" ceremony was held at the Tianhou Palace in Mahaung, Meishu Village, Matsu Island, where local officials and dignitaries formally unveiled the 29.6-meter-tall granite statue entirely crafted from granite. Many may wonder why the statue is not precisely 30 meters high but is instead built to a height of 29.6 meters. This design choice is intentional. The 29.6-meter height mirrors the total area of Matsu, which is 29.6 square kilometers. The statue is composed of 365 granite blocks, symbolizing safety and peace for all 365 days of the year. This grand structure not only commemorates Mazu’s devotion in leaping into the sea to save her father and brother but also exemplifies the deep faith of the Matsu people toward Mazu. More importantly, it symbolizes that Mazu as the patroness will forever protect every inch of the Matsu people and their land. Additionally, it powerfully promotes the Lienchiang County Government’s tourism slogan of "Mazu is in Matsu." Furthermore, near the statue's Tianhou Temple, the unique sacred feng shui site of Mazu enshrines a statue of Mazu carried to the summit of Mount Qomolangma (Mount Everest) by the renowned climber Li Xiao Shi—a rare and unforgettable attraction.