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

The first part of the program introduced participants to the basic structure of stone tidal weirs, their operating principles, and their distinctive ecological sustainability. Through carefully prepared materials, participants gained a clear understanding of how stone weirs ingeniously harness tidal fluctuations for fishing, as well as the environmental knowledge embedded in their design. The second part expanded the discussion to a global perspective, guiding participants to compare stone weir traditions in Taiwan with those found in other Austronesian-speaking regions. Through this activity, we sought to move public understanding beyond the well-known Double-Heart Stone Weir in Qimei, encouraging a deeper appreciation of stone weirs as significant subjects of underwater archaeological research, with rich cultural value and historical meaning. Participants came to recognize how stone weir structures form part of underwater archaeology and how they enrich our maritime cultural experience, while also prompting reflection on the relationship between modern society and the ocean.

The event received an enthusiastic response from the public. By combining intellectual engagement with interactive and enjoyable experiences, we hope to inspire participants to connect local culture with the wider world and to collectively cherish and pass on this invaluable maritime cultural heritage.