More than 1,600 Chinese soldiers of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), China's last imperial dynasty, who were killed while battling against intruding French troops in 1884

have finally been granted martyrdom status in Taiwan province.

A ceremony was held Friday to honor these courageous soldiers at the "Loyal Martyrs Temple" in Taipei. Local officials led by Mayor Ma Ying-jeou paid a tribute to the martyrs, accompanied by a 19-gun salute.

In 1884, Chinese imperial army repulsed and gave a telling blow to intruding French troops. Among the martyrs are 223 soldiers whose names are recorded and more than 1,400 whose names are unknown.

This year, Taipei city celebrates the 120th anniversary of the city's founding.

Source: Xinhua