Built in 1653, during the Dutch colonial rule, Chikan Tower was initially called Provintia which meant eternity in Dutch. However, the tower was renamed by the Han Chinese as 'the tower of savages' or 'tower of the red haired Barbarians'. The Chinese called it in different names such as Chikan Tower, Fantselou and Honmaulou.
Since Dutch colonial rule, Chikan Tower has been an important administration centre of Tainan in Taiwan. Today the site of the tower has become a prominent tourist attraction. It is also considered as the nation's most renowned historical site. The Chikan Tower has been through the Ching Dynasty, Ming Dynasty and Japanese Colonisation Period. However, many of the Tower's original architectural features can be seen even today. This exceptional landmark which is mainly attractive by night is filled with different types of steels and stone horses. In 1661 when the Dutch were held back by Cheng Chengkung, the famous Chinese general, Chikan Tower was transformed to be the mansion of Chentien governor. Among the eight well-known and picturesque views in Taiwan the sunset in Chikan Tower holds an immovable position.
Right opposite Provintia, visitors will be able to witness nine turtles made out of stone carrying plates. These stone structures were constructed during the Ching Dynasty in another location and were later removed and moved to the site of the Chikan Tower.
Few years later, this outstanding Taiwanese landmark became less popular after it was damaged as a result of civilian turmoil and lack of administration. The original Dutch architectural building was added with a typical Chinese style building. At one point Chikan Tower became the site that hosted the worship for Guanshihyin Buddha. However, it was transformed in to an army hospital during the Japanese colonisation period.
Visitors can further explore this site by staying at the nearby Shangri-La's Far Eastern Plaza Hotel, Tainan which is a superb Tainan luxury hotel that offers its guests an excellent range of facilities along with professional and friendly service.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
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