Dome of Light

Over 4,500 colored panels of glass combine to produce this illuminating work of art in the heart of a busy train station.

The Dome of Light is one of the largest glass artworks in the world. Designed by Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata, the mesmerizing attraction is composed of individual pieces of colored glass that are placed together to convey the story of human life. Gaze up at the masterpiece to make out the intriguing shapes and try to understand its concepts.

Capture photos of this exceptional work of art in the train station. Examine its themes that represent stages of life. These include “Water: The Womb of Life,” “Earth: Prosperity and Growth,” “Light: The Creative Spirit” and “Fire: Destruction and Rebirth.” Appreciate its general message of love and tolerance.

Two thick pillars, one red and the other blue, rise to meet the artwork from the station floor. Enjoy the view of the glass from between the columns in the large work’s epicenter. Many blues, greens and reds represent animals and mythical creatures.

Look at the giant dome, which has a diameter of about 100 feet (30 meters), making it stand out as a large part of the train station. It is so stunning that some couples choose to have wedding photos taken next to the glasswork of the metro station. The site claims to hold the largest glass artwork in the world, in the world’s largest round-shaped station. Japanese architects designed its interesting shell-shaped exits.

Quagliata oversaw the construction of the dome, which took four years to complete in Germany, before being shipped to Taiwan. The station is dedicated to the Formosa Incident, a rally that helped lead to democracy on the island.

Visit the glass dome for free. The station remains open throughout the day.

The Dome of Light is in Formosa Boulevard Station in the center of Kaohsiung. Take the Orange Line or Red Line to reach the railway station and find the glasswork where the two networks meet. After your visit to the station, take the time to explore the nearby markets.