Fort San Domingo — Attraction in New Taipei

It is slightly complicated to explain the historical site of Tamsui Historical Museum. Humour us a little and we will try to bring you through it.

There are mainly 2 areas that were covered during the tour. Firstly, the Fort San Domingo which was originally established by the Spanish in 1628. However, when they ceded Taiwan to the Dutch in 1642, they demolished the fort. The Dutch then built and renamed the Fort Antonio. This is why you can see the iconic Dutch bricks used in those days as you tour the premise. However, to reference the early occupation by the Spanish, the name, Fort San Domingo is used today. As for the name Hong Mao Cheng (红毛城) which literally means “red hair fortress”, it is a reference by the locals to the physical appearance of the Dutch.

The second building of interest at Tamsui Historical Museum is the British Consular Residence. The British Consular Residence at New Taipei City is a Western-styled house built by the British in 1891. After the Treaty of Tianjin in 1858 and the Treaty of Beijing in 1860, Taiwan had to open her ports to foreign trade. The British Consular was established to facilitate trade and economic interests on the island. Among other things, the British Consular also provides protection, including a local jail for the British population on the island...

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Fort San Domingo (淡水紅毛城) is a must-visit historical site in Tamsui, offering a deep dive into Taiwan’s complex colonial past. Built by the Spanish in 1628 and later taken over by the Dutch, it has since been occupied by various regimes, including the British and Qing Dynasty, before becoming a key landmark in modern Taiwan.

The History: The fort’s layered history is palpable as you walk through its well-preserved halls and grounds. Each occupying power has left its mark, from the Dutch red brick structure to the British Consulate Residence, which stands adjacent to the main fort. Informative displays and plaques help visitors understand the site’s significance in Taiwan’s political and cultural evolution.

The Architecture: The architecture is stunning, blending European colonial styles with local influences. The fort’s strategic location offers breathtaking views of the Tamsui River, making it an ideal spot for photography or quiet contemplation.

Tips: • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Aletheia University or Tamsui Old Street for a full day of exploration. • Bring a camera for some beautiful shots of the fort and river views. • Allocate at least an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits and...

Fort San Domingo was first built as a wooden fort by the Spanish in 1628 before the Dutch constructed a stone fort at the same location in 1644. From 1868 to 1971, the fort was leased to the British government and served continously as a consulate apart from the World War II years.

A standard adult ticket costs NTD 80 - keep it with you as the ticket can also be used to enter Hobe Fort a short bus ride (or a longer walk away) for free.

There are toilets, a souvenir shop, vending machines and a free water dispenser on site.

Keep an eye out for the valedictory telegram sent by the last British consul J A Featherstone to the British Foreign Secretary (and later Prime Minister) Alec Douglas-Home on the second floor of the former consulate premises. Until this tradition ceased some years ago, it was customary for British diplomats to provide a frank overview and personal observations of their host country and duty station. Featherstone's valedictory telegram makes for an...