Tomb of Chen Yuanguang in Zhangzhou

Tomb of Chen Yuanguang in Zhangzhou

The Tomb of Chen Yuanguang in Zhangzhou is a cultural tourism attraction.

Introduction The Tomb of Chen Yuanguang in Zhangzhou is located on Shigu Mountain in Punan Town, on the outskirts of the city, about 15 kilometers from the urban area. The tombstone is inscribed with “Tomb of General Chen Who Opened Up Zhangzhou in the Tang Dynasty.” In front of the tomb are a pair each of stone sheep, stone lions, and ornamental pillars. Chen Yuanguang (657–711 AD), courtesy name Tingju, also known as Longhu, was a native of Guangzhou (present-day Huangchuan, Henan Province). He was the son of Chen Zheng, a military general of the Tang Dynasty awarded the title of “Gui De General.” Well-versed in classics, history, and military strategy, he authored his own military treatise. After his father’s death, he succeeded to his position and was appointed as the Yingyang General. In the second year of the Chuigong era (686 AD) of the Tang Dynasty, he was granted permission to establish the Zhangzhou Prefecture between Quanzhou and Chaozhou, and served as its first prefect for 26 years. He rigorously enforced the law, emphasized land reclamation, and developed water conservancy projects, making outstanding contributions to the development of Zhangzhou. In 711 AD, Chen Yuanguang died in battle and was revered as the “Sacred King Who Opened Up Zhangzhou.” He was initially buried in Zhangpu and later relocated to the current site.

Zhangzhou City, Fujian Province