Two ancient watchtowers dating back over a century have emerged as popular tourist attractions in Henghechen Village, Taizhou’s Jiaojiang District. Nestled among traditional architecture, these well-preserved structures offer visitors a glimpse into the area’s turbulent past.
Guardians Against Banditry
Built during the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China era, the watchtowers were commissioned by local leaders Xu Xianxiang and Xu Zhengda to protect villagers from rampant banditry. “Frequent robberies made life unbearable for residents, forcing them to organize self-defense measures,” explained a local historian.
Architectural Fortresses
The imposing structures feature bluestone foundations and thick stone walls still bearing visible bullet marks. Standing significantly taller than surrounding homes, their strategic height provided defensive advantages. Square windows with iron bars and shutters served as both lookouts and firing positions.
Twin Towers of Defense
Located just 10 meters apart, the complementary towers showcase different designs. The six-meter “Jianli Fort” protected wealthy households, while its ten-meter neighbor boasts three impressive stories. Inside, visitors can imagine villagers’ courageous stand against bandits generations ago.
Cultural Preservation Drives Rural Revitalization
With 600 years of history since the Ming Dynasty, Henghechen Village has leveraged its cultural assets – including these watchtowers – for sustainable development. Through careful restoration and heritage tourism initiatives, the community has transformed historical features into economic opportunities while preserving its unique identity.
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