Tăng Phúc Pagoda

21/12/2024 39 0
Tăng Phúc Pagoda is an ancient pagoda with a long history and profound cultural value. The pagoda was built during the Trần Dynasty, one of the prosperous periods in the country's history.

Di tích Lịch sử văn hóa Chùa Tăng Phúc

Historical and Cultural Relic of Tăng Phúc Pagoda

Located on the embankment of the Mã River, near the ancient Thiệu Dương (Tư Town) citadel, an area significant in the history of Thanh Hóa, Tăng Phúc Pagoda is an ancient pagoda with a long history and profound cultural value. The pagoda was built during the Trần Dynasty, one of the prosperous periods in the country's history. It has witnessed many ups and downs throughout history. After having endured various events, especially following the wars and historical upheavals, in the Nguyễn Dynasty , the pagoda was relocated to Hạc Oa village, Đông Cương commune, Thanh Hóa city, where it still stands today.

Tăng Phúc Pagoda is part of the complex that includes Tăng Phúc Pagoda, the Temple of Confucius, and the Nguyễn Vỹ Temple. Based on the architectural style of the pagoda, which follows the "chuôi vồ" design, the remaining foundations and pedestal stones, as well as the content of the "Commemorative Inscription for the Buddha" stele still preserved in the pagoda, it can be confirmed that the pagoda was built at the end of the 18th century, around the 36th year of the Cảnh Hưng era (1775).

Pagoda Gate

Through many upheavals and changes, especially in 1972, when the U.S. imperialist forces viciously bombed the Hàm Rồng bridge and the surrounding area, nearly flattening the Hạc Oa village with bombs, Tăng Phúc Pagoda was also severely damaged. In 2001, the pagoda was restored on the site behind the remains of the old pagoda's foundations, including the main pagoda and the Mẫu (Mother) shrine, with a total area of 2,500m². The main pagoda was constructed based on the model of the Tây Phương Pagoda, with an ancient architectural style, using rough concrete, and the beams were structured in the style of overlapping "chồng rường" trusses. The main pagoda was completed in 2004.

The Surrounding Area of the Pagoda

Tăng Phúc Pagoda not only stands out for its architectural beauty but is also deeply connected with historical stories, legends about important figures and events in the nation’s history. These legends and stories not only help remind us of the past but also serve as valuable lessons about patriotism, the spirit of overcoming difficulties, and national unity.

As a place of worship for the Buddha, Tăng Phúc Pagoda is also an important cultural and spiritual center, where religious activities and traditional cultural practices of the local people and Buddhists from all over are held. The religious festivals and cultural activities organized at Tăng Phúc Pagoda attract many visitors and Buddhist followers, creating a solemn and warm festive atmosphere full of love.

The Scenic View in Front of the Pagoda

Tăng Phúc Pagoda is not only a center for religious and cultural activities for Buddhists in Thanh Hoa but also a revolutionary base for the military and people of Thanh Hóa in the struggle to defend the country. From 1964 to 1972, during the resistance against the American air raids on North Vietnam, Hạc Oa village was one of the key targets for American bombing. At that time, Tăng Phúc Pagoda served as a solid rear base for the Hàm Rồng - Nam Ngạn front, and the pagoda was used as a first-aid station for the 228th Air Division.

In addition, according to the elders of Hạc Oa village, Tăng Phúc Pagoda is also a place of worship for Nguyễn Văn Cung (also known as Đội Cung), a patriotic soldier during the French resistance. The unique feature that creates the charm of the pagoda is its distinctive architecture, spacious and serene environment, which makes visitors feel as if they have entered a “fairyland” each time they visit.

The Space in Front of the Pagoda

Tăng Phúc Pagoda is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the history, culture, and spirituality of Thanh Hóa. Not only is it an ancient pagoda with graceful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, but Tăng Phúc Pagoda is also a cultural and historical relic that bears the marks of the region's historical ups and downs. It is a place that preserves the deep spiritual values of the nation. Visitors here are not only able to admire the beauty of the relics but also have the opportunity to learn about the historical stories and legends associated with this land. They can also experience unique rural tourism products in Đông Cương village, especially during the Lunar New Year and Spring festival season. With its cultural and historical significance, Tăng Phúc Pagoda was recognized as a National Cultural and Historical Relic by the People's Committee of Thanh Hóa in 1999 and has become a provincial tourist site.

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