Mati Lake

Mati Lake, specifically the original North Mati Lake, is a horseshoe-shaped lake located on the campus of Nankai University, situated north of Dazhong Road. On the peninsula in the lake stands a monument built in 1979 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Nankai University, dedicated to alumnus Zhou Enlai. The monument features large gilded characters inscribed with Zhou Enlai's handwriting, reading "I love Nankai." Each summer, the lake is covered with blooming lotuses, creating a spectacular view.

History

In the early days of Nankai University, Mati Lake consisted of two lakes, one to the south and one to the north. In 1937, during the Japanese invasion of China, Nankai Garden was bombed into ruins. South Mati Lake was flattened, while North Mati Lake remained intact, becoming one of the iconic landscapes of Nankai University.

Later, Nankai University built a small garden on the original site of South Mati Lake. Over time, the name Mati Lake began to specifically refer to North Mati Lake.

During the Campaign to Suppress Counterrevolutionaries, the Anti-Rightist Movement, and the Cultural Revolution, several renowned professors from Nankai University committed suicide at Mati Lake, such as Yan Yuheng. The ashes of mathematician Wu Daren and his wife were also placed under a pine tree on the island in the lake.

See also

• Nankai University