20/07/2019
Taian Lou (泰安楼) is an underrated ancient monument in China. Hidden away in Hu Liao, Dabu County (湖寮镇,大埔县) in Guangdong province, it is one of the rare square stone tower. Looking at photos, you could easily mistake it for one of the more famous Hakka earthen towers or Tu Lou in Fujian province (福建土楼). However, unlike the Fujian Tu Lou, Taian Lou is constructed of stone and not earth. It is also square unlike most Tu Lou which are circular.
Taian Lou was built in 1764 and has more than 200 rooms spread over 3 stories. The two lower tiers are fortified with stones and has no windows for defense against bandits. Communal facilities like altars, ancestor halls, kitchens, bathrooms and water wells are located in the center of the complex. Grains and live stocks are kept in the lower levels ensuring that the occupants of the complex can survive a long siege. It is a combination of a castle and condominium.
Taian Lou is a 10-minutes’ drive from Hu Liao Central and is located next to the scenic West Lake Garden. With hundreds of red lanterns hanging along the corridor, the complex makes a very photogenic subject for all photographers.
