Nestled along the rugged coastline of Zhejiang province in eastern China lies the ancient fishing village of Shitang. Known as “China’s Notre-Dame,” this village is home to a breathtaking array of stone houses that have withstood the test of time for over 600 years.
In the 14th century, fishermen from neighboring Fujian province migrated to Shitang, bringing with them a rich seafaring culture. Faced with relentless typhoons and the looming threat of pirates, these settlers ingeniously crafted homes from the very stones beneath their feet. Using local granite, they built robust structures with walls up to 60 centimeters thick, designed to withstand both nature’s fury and human adversaries.
The result is a unique architectural landscape where “houses embrace the mountains, and mountains cradle the houses.” The stone dwellings cascade down the hillside towards the sea, creating a harmonious blend of human habitation and natural terrain. Every step along the cobblestone paths whispers tales of an ancient dialogue between stone and sea, echoing the resilience and ingenuity of Shitang’s early inhabitants.
Today, Shitang stands as a living museum, preserving a way of life that has all but vanished elsewhere. The stone houses, with their weathered facades and enduring strength, offer a window into China’s rich cultural heritage. They not only tell the stories of the past but also inspire younger generations to appreciate and preserve the traditions that have shaped their history.
