Lion- Statue-013M 新莊慈祐宮

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New Zhuang Ciyou Temple Guardians of the Gate\nDuring the Yongzheng and Qianlong periods of the Qing Dynasty, New Zhuang was Taiwan's most important port and its economic, social, and political center in northern Taiwan. However, as water transportation functions declined, it gradually lost its position to Danshui. Located on Old Street in New Zhuang, Ciyou Temple enshrines the Holy Mother from Heaven. The temple was built during the seventh year of Yongzheng (1729) and renovated twice during the Qianlong period: first in 1753 and again in 1777. It was also rebuilt in 1812 by Cao Ruilin, the county magistrate of New Zhuang. In addition to several other renovations, including those in 1867 and 1875, the temple has undergone many restorations over the years. The stone lions at the entrance are carved from a rare type of green rock that is seldom seen in northern Taiwan. Their bodies are rounded and upright, with the mother lion sporting a beautifully crafted ball between her thighs. Unfortunately, these carvings have been damaged by recent renovations and no longer display their original delicate curves and turns.