The Palace of the Goddess is a historical site located on the west bank of the Sancha River. The main hall in the palace, the most ancient wooden structure in the city, was built in 1326 during the rule of Emperor Taiding of the Yuan Dynasty. At that time, Tianjin was a transit station for grain shipped from the south to the north by sea and inland water routes. The palace was erected here because, according to legend, Tianhou was the goddess to whom sailors turned for protection at sea.