Hechuan District, Diaoyu Fortress Scenic Area - Zhongyi Temple

Zhongyi Temple in Diaoyu Fortress Scenic Area is located in Diaoyu Fortress, Hechuan District, Chongqing. It is a temple built to commemorate the loyal and brave spirit of the Southern Song Dynasty soldiers and civilians who resisted the Mongol invasion, and it carries profound historical and cultural connotations. Below is a detailed introduction to Zhongyi Temple: Historical Background 1. Construction Time Zhongyi Temple was first built in the Ming Dynasty (specific date to be determined) and was originally called "Wang Zhang Temple". It was later repaired and expanded several times. In the Qing Dynasty, it was renamed "Zhongyi Temple" to praise the loyalty and righteousness of the Southern Song Dynasty soldiers who defended the city. 2. Commemorative Figures The temple enshrines the famous Southern Song Dynasty generals Wang Jian, Zhang Jue, and others who resisted the Mongols, as well as Yu Jie, who presided over the construction of the Diaoyu Fortress defense system. They were the core figures in the defense of Diaoyu Fortress (1243–1279), holding the city for 36 years and creating a miracle in military history. Architectural Features Architectural Style: The existing building was rebuilt in the Qing Dynasty, adopting the traditional temple layout of eastern Sichuan, with blue tiles and gray walls, solemn and solemn. Main Structure: Main Hall: Enshrines statues of generals such as Wang Jian and Zhang Jue, displaying related cultural relics and historical materials. Inscriptions: Preserves inscriptions from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, recording the history of the resistance against the Mongols in Diaoyu Fortress and the repair process in later generations. Couplets and Plaques: Inscribed with "Loyalty and Righteousness for Thousands of Years", "Mountains and Rivers Forever", etc., highlighting national integrity. Historical Significance Symbol of Resistance Against the Mongols: Diaoyu Fortress was an important fortress for the Southern Song Dynasty soldiers and civilians to resist the Mongol invasion, and Zhongyi Temple became a microcosm of this history, known as the "Eastern Mecca". World Influence: Möngke Khan (the Great Khan of the Mongols) died under Diaoyu Fortress, directly leading to the interruption of the Mongol westward expedition, changing the historical process of Eurasia. The existence of Zhongyi Temple highlights the strategic position of this place as the "Place Where the Whip of God Broke". Cultural Heritage: The temple carries the values of "loyalty and righteousness to serve the country" in Chinese culture and is now a base for patriotic education. Tourist Information Location: Diaoyu Fortress Avenue, Hechuan District, Chongqing. Opening Hours: 8:30–17:30 (subject to the scenic area announcement). Tickets: Diaoyu Fortress Scenic Area ticket is about CNY 60 (including Zhongyi Temple). Transportation: About 1.5 hours by car from Chongqing city center, or take a bullet train to Hechuan Station and then transfer to a bus/taxi.