Deqing Academy (Confucius Temple)

　　Located on Chaoyang West Road, Decheng Town, Deqing County, Zhaoqing City, Deqing Academy (Confucius Temple) is one of the oldest, most distinctive, and culturally significant academies in southern China. It was originally built in the fourth year of the Song Dynasty's Dazhong Xiangfu period (1011 AD) and rebuilt in the first year of the Yuan Dynasty's Dade period (1297 AD). The academy holds great historical and research value, making it a vital heritage site for Confucian culture. The Dacheng Hall, the main structure of the academy, is renowned for its extraordinary architectural design. It is famous for its four central pillars without capitals, the reduction of four other supporting pillars, and the longest and most intricate dougong (bracket set) system. Experts have praised it as a "gem of ancient architecture, a crystallization of wisdom, and a silent symphony," calling it the "pearl" of ancient wooden architecture in southern China.
　　In 1996, Deqing Academy was designated a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit. Today, it serves as a place for visitors to pay respects to Confucius and appreciate Confucian culture. Notable exhibits include the longest Ouxu clay sculpture artwork "The Sacred Footsteps of Confucius," the "Exhibition of Ancient Chinese Imperial Examination," and the "Confucian History and Culture Corridor." Additionally, it showcases the handprints and footprints of Guangdong’s top scholars in the provincial college entrance examination.
　　In recent years, the academy has become a popular destination for countless visitors who come to worship Confucius, seeking wisdom, diligence, and a deeper understanding of both ancient and modern knowledge.