Nantou County Values Preservation of Lin Chongben Hall's Door God Murals, Inviting Cultural Heritage Committee for On-Site Assessment

Regarding recent public attention on the restoration of the door god murals at Lin Chongben Hall in Zhushan Township, Nantou County, the Nantou County Government issued a statement today (3rd). The county government emphasized its high regard for public opinions and concerns regarding cultural heritage preservation. Upon receiving related feedback on July 29, the Cultural Affairs Bureau immediately initiated administrative support procedures. On July 30, officials from the Cultural Heritage Division visited the site to assess the restoration progress, providing the management body with information and administrative consultation on cultural asset preservation, assisting them in carefully evaluating future actions.

During on-site discussions with the management body, the Nantou County Cultural Affairs Bureau reported that the management initially indicated they would pause restoration work and promptly contacted the contractor. However, the contractor responded that preparatory work had already begun, and halting the project could lead to compensation issues. While respecting the management committee’s decision, the Cultural Affairs Bureau recommended postponing construction until after an on-site inspection by the Cultural Heritage Review Committee. Based on expert recommendations, the subsequent restoration approach should be re-evaluated. After coordination, the chairman of the management committee agreed on-site to cooperate with the inspection, suspend restoration activities, and determine the next steps afterward.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau clarified that Lin Chongben Hall and its door god murals currently do not hold official cultural asset status under the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act. Therefore, legally, the owner remains responsible for management and maintenance. While the county respects the owner’s legal rights, it encourages appropriate preservation measures for culturally, historically, and artistically valuable resources to properly protect precious cultural assets and sustain local historical memory and cultural inheritance.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau plans to invite members of the Cultural Heritage Review Committee for an on-site inspection this week, proceeding with follow-up actions in accordance with the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act. By balancing cultural preservation, property rights, and public interest through professional and careful procedures, the county aims to jointly safeguard the region’s invaluable cultural heritage.