The Former Residence of Chen Ge Lao is located on the Prime Minister’s Mansion Style Street. The owner, Chen Yuanlong, held a high position and power, being the Grand Secretary of the Wen Yuan Pavilion during the Yongzheng period, commonly referred to as the Prime Minister or Chancellor. In the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Prime Minister was also known as Ge Lao, hence the common name for his former residence is ‘Chen Ge Lao’s Residence’.
The main entrance of Chen Ge Lao’s Residence faces north towards the river, exuding an imposing presence. Upon entering, all the buildings are oriented southward. The first section on the eastern route is the ancestral hall where the Chen family worships their ancestors. In front of the sleeping quarters, there was once a high wall like a screen, which has now collapsed and not yet been restored, revealing a small hall with three rooms. In the courtyard stands a more than 600-year-old ancient ginkgo tree, tall and robust, evergreen throughout the seasons. Inside the residence, there are also the ‘Three Treasures of the Chen Family’, namely the Ming dynasty Chen’s calligraphy rubbings and stone inscriptions, which are renowned in the world of calligraphy, the九龙original plaque ‘Gong Lao Zhu Xun’ bestowed by Emperor Yongzheng, and the ever-young ancient arhat pine, all of which captivate visitors. Additionally, there are historical facts and folk tales about Emperor Qianlong’s six visits to the south and his four stays in Haining, as well as the mystery surrounding Qianlong’s birth. The residence is open to visitors all year round from 8:00 to 16:30.
