Weir & Flipping: the story behind the weirs with different shapes – 2025 New Taipei City Archaeology Festival

In the first part of the activity, participants were introduced to the basic structure, operational principles, and unique ecological sustainability characteristics of stone fish weirs. With carefully prepared materials, participants were able to clearly understand how stone fish weirs ingeniously utilize tidal changes for fishing, as well as the environmental wisdom embedded within this practice.

The second part expanded the perspective to an international context, guiding participants to compare the stone fish weir cultures of Taiwan with those of other Austronesian-speaking regions. Stone fish weirs in different areas have developed distinct forms and methods of use in response to local geography, tidal conditions, and cultural contexts. Through these comparisons, participants not only gained insight into diverse maritime cultures but also appreciated the wisdom of how ancestral communities coexisted with the ocean.

Through this activity, we hope that public understanding of stone fish weirs will no longer be limited to the famous Twin-Heart Stone Weir of Qimei, but will extend to a deeper appreciation of their cultural value and historical significance as important subjects of underwater archaeological research. Participants came to recognize how stone fish weir structures form an integral part of underwater archaeology, enriching our maritime humanistic experience while also prompting reflection on the relationship between modern society and the ocean.

The event received an enthusiastic response from the public. By balancing intellectual depth with engaging experiences, we aim to inspire participants to imagine stronger connections between local culture and the wider world, and to collectively cherish and pass on this valuable maritime cultural heritage.