“Thang Long tu tran,” comprising Bach Ma, Voi Phuc, Kim Lien, and Quan Thanh temples, have maintained their prestigious position in the cultural and historical tapestry of Hanoi. People flock to the ancient sanctuaries on the first days of the lunar New Year to enjoy the long-standing traditions as well as embrace spiritual values that foster optimism for their journey ahead.
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Kim Lien Temple, located in Phuong Lien ward of Dong Da district, was constructed under the reign of King Ly Thai To (974 - 1028) following the establishment of Thang Long capital in 1010 to protect the Southern approach to the imperial city. |
Kim Lien Temple, located in Phuong Lien ward of Dong Da district, worships Cao Son Dai Vuong (Lord of High Mountain). A stone stele there reads that on his journey to quell a revolt and restore power, King Le Tuong Duc (1495 - 1516) came to the area of Phung Hoa district (now Lao Temple in Van Phuong commune of Nho Quan district, Ninh Binh province) and reached an ancient temple inscribed with the four characters of “Cao Son Dai Vuong” in the midst of a mountain. There, the King and his entourage prayed for the lord’s support. Ten days later, their operation came to a success. Therefore, the King decided to build a temple dedicated to Cao Son Dai Vuong in Phung Hoa district. To pay tribute to the deity, in 1509, he ordered building a bigger temple which is now Kim Lien in Kim Hoa ward near the then capital.
Voi Phuc Temple is one of the most revered spiritual places in Vietnam. In 1994, people in Thu Le area donated to recast the 93-cm high bell with a body divided into four quarters and embossed with the words "Superior Western Temple." The temple is dedicated to Linh Lang – a historical figure who helped King Ly Thanh Tong (1023 - 1072) to defeat the invaders.
Quan Thanh Temple, located in Quan Thanh ward, Ba Dinh district, was built on Hoi Long Mound northeast of West Lake in the early years when King Ly Thai To (974 - 1028) moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long. Quan Thanh Temple is the place to worship Huyen Thien Tran Vu - a god who guards the north direction of Thang Long Citadel.
Bach Ma Temple, originally built in Tho Xuong district, Hoai Duc, now stands at No.76 Hang Buom street, Hoan Kiem district. The temple, which literally means the White Horse temple was built under the reign of King Ly Thai To during the 1010s. The temple honors Long Do – the guardian deity of Thang Long capital and protector of the Eastern gate.
Source: VNA