History
From Congqing Xuan to a coastal defence headquarters
Originally the Ming residence of Xu Xie, the site was rebuilt as an official headquarters by General Chen Long in 1682.
- Mi Ming period
Xu Xie’s residence, Congqing Xuan
The site began as Congqing Xuan, the residence of Kinmen scholar Xu Xie, a successful Ming civil-service examination candidate renowned for his writing.
- 16 1682
General Chen Long rebuilt the compound
In 1682, Chen Long converted the residence into the Kinmen regional military headquarters, the senior institution responsible for naval forces and coastal defence.
- Qi Qing period
Military centre of Kinmen
The commander worked and held council here, directing naval units and coastal defence while the site witnessed movement across the Taiwan Strait.
- Re Republican era
Used by several administrations
The buildings later accommodated county government and other offices, remaining an administrative focus as Jincheng developed.
- To Today
Restored for public interpretation
The restored compound presents its halls, offices, inner residence, warships and weapons as a free heritage attraction.
What was a regional commander?
A zongbing was a senior officer of the Qing Green Standard Army with responsibility for the military affairs of a region. The Kinmen commander directed naval units and coastal defence and was effectively the area’s highest military authority.