Anping Old Fort
Southern Taiwan Region
Anping Old Fort, also historically known as Fort Zeelandia, is a significant 17th-century fortress located in Anping District, Tainan, Taiwan. Established by the Dutch East India Company in 1624, it served as the administrative and military center during Dutch colonial rule on the island. The fort was initially constructed using sand and wood but was later rebuilt with brick and stone, completed by 1634, making it the oldest surviving fortress in Taiwan. It played a central role in trade between Europe, China, and Japan, and was the site of major conflicts, including the 1661–1662 siege by Ming loyalist forces led by Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong), who ultimately expelled the Dutch and renamed the fort Anping Town. The fortress witnessed subsequent periods under Qing and Japanese rule, experiencing decline and partial destruction, but has been preserved as a cultural monument. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, including the original brick walls, the historic watchtower built during Japanese rule, and museums detailing the fort's complex history. The site is renowned for its panoramic views and the famed "Anping Sunset," one of Taiwan's celebrated scenic spots. Anping Old Fort stands as a testament to Taiwan's layered colonial past and cultural evolution, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
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Tip: The best time to visit Anping Old Fort is during the late afternoon to enjoy the famous Anping Sunset. It's recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues. Visitors can benefit from discounts such as free admission for Tainan City residents with ID. The fort is accessible by public bus from Tainan Railway Station (Bus Route 2). Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces and allocate sufficient time to explore the museums and ruins.
Interesting facts
- •Anping Old Fort is the oldest surviving Western-style fortress in Taiwan, completed in 1634.
- •The fort was originally named Fort Oranje before being renamed Fort Zeelandia in 1627, after the Dutch province of Zeeland.
- •The site witnessed the famous 1661–1662 siege where Koxinga expelled the Dutch to establish Ming loyalist rule in Taiwan.
- •The "Anping Sunset" viewed from the fort is one of Taiwan's eight famous scenic spots.
- •The fort's brick walls are among the few remaining structures from the Dutch colonial era in Taiwan.
History
Anping Old Fort was first established in 1624 by the Dutch East India Company as a strategic military and trading post named Fort Zeelandia.
Initially constructed with wood and sand, it was rebuilt with brick and stone by 1634 to strengthen defenses.
In 1661, Ming loyalist Koxinga led a siege against the fort, successfully expelling the Dutch by 1662 and renaming the area Anping Town.
Under Qing rule, the fort gradually lost its military importance due to geographical changes and was partially dismantled.
During Japanese colonial rule, the site was restored and a watchtower was added in 1975.
Today, the remnants of the fort are preserved as national historic monuments, symbolizing Taiwan's colonial history and cultural heritage.
Place Guide
Fort Walls and Gateways1634
Explore the remaining brick walls and gateways of the original fort, showcasing Dutch colonial military architecture and defensive design from the 17th century.
Watchtower (Observation Tower)1975
Built in 1975 during Japanese rule restoration efforts, the white watchtower offers panoramic views of the surrounding Anping harbor and sunset vistas.
Anping Old Fort Historical Museum
This museum within the fort grounds exhibits artifacts, historical documents, and models illustrating the fort's construction, Dutch colonial history, and the siege by Koxinga.
Contact
Phone: 06 226 7348
