陈子壮纪念馆

Did the Ming Dynasty Chen Jisheng Ancestral Temple foresee its future as the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall? Now known as the Chen Zi’er Memorial Hall, this site has witnessed centuries of history. The Chen Jisheng Ancestral Temple, built in 1539, has undergone three renovations, shaping its destiny. It’s one of the few glazed ridge ancestral temples approved by the emperor. It stands as a testament to both ancestral worship and patriotic education. The Chen Zi’er Memorial Hall is a quiet haven next to the bustling Shabei Primary School. The students’ voices mingle with the temple’s serene atmosphere. It may not be the largest temple, but its unique architecture is captivating. The colorful and intricate carvings set it apart from other ancestral halls. The roof boasts rare glazed ridge crests, preserved examples of exquisite craftsmanship. The temple’s design, with interconnected rooms and wings flanking the main halls, is typical of Guangdong architecture. Chen Di, a 27th-generation descendant, shares stories of the temple’s past. It was once much larger, but parts were destroyed over time. The glazed ridge ancestral temples are rare in Guangdong. Their beautiful glazed tile roofs add to their grandeur. The Chen Zi’er Memorial Hall has a rich history. It produced seven Jinshi, five Xiucai, and over 30 officials during the Ming Dynasty. Chen Zi’er (1596-1647) is the most tragic figure among them. A child prodigy, known for his intelligence and poetry skills, he became a Jinshi at 24 and later an official in the Ministry of Rites. He lectured emperors and impressed the court with his knowledge. Chen Zi’er actively resisted the Qing Dynasty and died a patriotic hero. In his memory, the ancestral temple became the Chen Zi’er Memorial Hall in 1987. A 1.9-meter bronze statue of Chen Zi’er now graces the entrance. The hall displays historical materials and pictures illustrating his life. It was designated a district-level patriotic education site in 2005. Inside, everything is neatly arranged, overseen by a committee of 20 retired members from the Shabei community. The Chen Zi’er Memorial Hall opens daily, free of charge, from 8 am to 11 am and 1 pm to 5 pm. A dedicated space for seniors provides a relaxing spot for leisure and exercise.