Ancient Zhong Temple

Ancient Zhong Temple

Ancient Zhong Temple is a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

Ancient Zhong Temple

Ancient Zhong Temple (Listed in the 6th batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units)

Era: Yuan to Qing Dynasties

Address: 10.5 km northeast of Gaoping City

on the highland northwest of Xiatai Village

The temple’s exact founding date is unknown. It faces south and is divided into upper and lower courtyards, featuring grand architectural scale. The lower courtyard includes a stage, viewing pavilion, incense kitchen, and other structures. The upper courtyard houses the mountain gate, Prince Hall, Main Hall, side halls, and wing rooms.

The mountain gate has three arched gateways. Above the western arched gateway is a Ming Dynasty stone inscription engraved with the three large characters “古中庙” (Ancient Zhong Temple). The Prince Hall is a remnant structure from the Yuan Dynasty, with a width of three bays, a depth of four rafters, a square floor plan, and a single-eave hip-and-gable roof. The hall has no beams inside, hence it is also called the Beamless Hall. The surrounding eaves are fitted with large beams, and the interior features an octagonal caisson ceiling with a hanging lotus column at the center. The column capitals display bracket sets that transition elegantly. The architecture is unique and represents one of the earliest forms of beamless construction in China. The Main Hall is from the Ming Dynasty. Its front eaves columns are hexagonal, supporting upturned eaves. The gable walls above feature murals depicting celestial generals and deity figures, exuding a solemn and divine atmosphere. An inscription on the murals reads: “The palace stands solemnly, as if divine beings descend from the heavens. The generals are majestic, their spirits awe-inspiring. One feels as though immortals are descending upon the temple.” Further reading:

· 6th Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units