The Con Son-Kiep Bac Autumn Festival 2013 will start on September 14 (the tenth day of the eighth lunar month) in the northern province of Hai Duong in memory of national hero General Tran Hung Dao.

The General is one of the most revered figures in Vietnam’s history for his leading role in the country’s victory over the three invasion wars by the Mongolians in the 13th century. He passed away on August 20 (lunar calendar) in 1300.

The ten-day festival will feature many traditional spiritual rituals such as a requiem at Con Son pagoda, a seal opening ceremony at Kiep Bac temple and a commemoration of the hero in Mam Xoi mount, plus an array of cultural and sports activities.

Covering an area of more than 8 hectares in Chi Linh district, the Con Son-Kiep Bac historical site is closely associated with the lives and causes of Tran Hung Dao and the Great Man of Culture of the World, Nguyen Trai.

The area is the site of a defence line built at the end of the 13th century to protect the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. It witnessed important battles between the Tran dynasty army and the Yuan-Mongol invaders.

Con Son, surrounded by pine trees, saw the pure and upright life of Nguyen Trai (1380-1442), one of Vietnam's most famous poets and writers.

Con Son-Kiep Bac was recognised as a national heritage in 1962 and a special national heritage in 2012.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has recognised Con Son-Kiep Bac spring and autumn festivals as the national intangible cultural heritage.

Source: VNA