
The Spanish chose this location to build Fort San Domingo because it is situated on a hill on the north bank of the Tamsui River, offering a commanding position with significant military advantages. Later, Fort San Domingo became one of the key bases for Spanish trade and missionary activities in Taiwan. When the Dutch defeated the Spanish, they recognized the strategic importance of this site and decided to rebuild Fort San Domingo near the original location.After the Qing Empire defeated the Zheng family, they renovated Fort San Domingo in 1724. However, with adjustments in defense strategies, the fort gradually lost its military function and fell into obscurity. In the 1860s, Tamsui became one of the treaty ports, attracting foreign merchants, officials, and missionaries, which brought a turning point for the fort. In 1867, the British leased Fort San Domingo from the Qing Empire to use it as a consulate, transforming it from a military fortress into a diplomatic site and bringing it back into public awareness.Before entering the main fort, take a moment to enjoy the stunning views of Guanyin Mountain and the Tamsui River. This spot is also renowned as a prime location for watching sunsets. Since the early Qing Dynasty, Tamsui’s “Sunset at the Battery” has been recognized as one of the “Four Scenic Views of Tamsui,” “Eight Scenic Views of Tamsui,” and “Eight Scenic Views of Northern Tamsui.” The “battery” refers to the high defense tower, which is Fort San Domingo.