The Fu De Keng Cemetery is a cemetery located in Taipei City, Taiwan. The cemetery has been used for burials since the late 18th century and covers an area of 47 hectares (120 acres). Fu De Keng Cemetery has been designated as a National Cultural Heritage Site in Taiwan.
It is an old graveyard located in the Taipei suburb of Gongguan (formerly named Shulin District), where many important Taiwanese figures are buried. It is named after the Chinese god of fortune and prosperity, whose surname was Fu (meaning “good fortune”), hence the name of this cemetery.
It has been established since 1882, after the death of a shaman named fu de keng. Some common items you can find here are shops selling luxury items, food stalls and restaurants selling local cuisine as well as cultural performances such as opera singing and dance performance by famous taiwanese traditional music & dance troupe “the hsiang-huang”, who perform every few days or so.
The ancient history and significance of Fu De Keng Cemetery is the only cemetery established in Taiwan by Europeans. In 1854, British merchant Thomas Glover registered his cannery in Tamsui and he had been buried there since 1885 until today when this small town has turned into an bustling urban zone famous for its seafood cuisine.
The Amazing Geography & Design of Fu De Keng Cemetery
Fu De Keng Cemetery in Taiwan is a marvel of both geography and design. Situated on the mountainside, the cemetery is surrounded by lush greenery and boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The cemetery is divided into several sections, each with its own unique design and purpose. The main section is the burial area, where graves are arranged in a grid-like pattern. The graves are made of polished black granite and are adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions.
In addition to the burial area, the cemetery also has a memorial area where visitors can pay their respects to loved ones. This area is designed to resemble a traditional Chinese courtyard, with a central pavilion surrounded by smaller structures and gardens.
One of the most impressive features of Fu De Keng Cemetery is its use of natural elements in the design. The cemetery is designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding environment, with trees and other vegetation incorporated into the layout. The result is a peaceful and serene setting that feels like a natural extension of the mountain landscape.
Fu De Keng Cemetery is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and a deep respect for nature. Its unique blend of geography and design make it a truly remarkable place and a fitting final resting place for those who are laid to rest there.
The People Behind the Construction and Maintenance of Fu De Keng Cemetery
The construction and maintenance of Fu De Keng Cemetery in Taiwan is a testament to the dedication and hard work of many people, including architects, engineers, landscapers, and maintenance staff.
The cemetery was designed by renowned Taiwanese architect Chen Yifeng, who drew inspiration from traditional Chinese architecture and the natural landscape of the surrounding mountains. Chen’s vision was to create a space that seamlessly blended into the surrounding environment, while also incorporating elements of traditional Chinese design.
To bring his vision to life, Chen worked closely with a team of engineers and construction workers who carefully excavated and leveled the mountainside to create the cemetery’s terraced layout. The team also installed a complex drainage system to prevent erosion and ensure the stability of the mountain slope.
Once the construction was complete, a team of landscapers and gardeners took over the maintenance of the cemetery. Their job was to ensure that the greenery and vegetation surrounding the cemetery remained healthy and vibrant, while also maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of the burial and memorial areas.
The staff at Fu De Keng Cemetery take great pride in their work, which they view as a sacred duty to honor the memories of those who are laid to rest there. They work tirelessly to ensure that the cemetery remains a peaceful and serene final resting place for generations to come.