The Phú Khê Communal House

21/12/2024 43 0
It is the site dedicated to the worship of the tutelary gods of Phú Khê Village. The deities honored at this communal house are Hiển Hựu Cao Minh, also known as Chu Minh, and Hồng Vĩ Tiêu Giang, also known as Chu Tuấn. These two brothers were distinguished generals who played a significant role in assisting the Lý Dynasty (11th - 13th century) in defending the kingdom against foreign invaders.
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The Phú Khê Communal House - National Historical and Cultural Relic

The Phú Khê Communal House is located in Hoằng Phú Commune, Hoằng Hóa District, Thanh Hóa Province. It is the site dedicated to the worship of the tutelary gods of Phú Khê Village. The deities honored at this communal house are Hiển Hựu Cao Minh, also known as Chu Minh, and Hồng Vĩ Tiêu Giang, also known as Chu Tuấn. These two brothers were distinguished generals who played a significant role in assisting the Lý Dynasty (11th - 13th century) in defending the kingdom against foreign invaders.

The Main Gate of Phú Khê Communal House

The Phú Khê Communal House was constructed during the reign of Lý Thánh Tông (1028-1057) for the people of Phú Trừng Trang (the name of Phú Khê during the Lý Dynasty) to honor the two tutelary gods of the village. Regarding the architecture of the communal house, as described by Lê Quý Đôn, it was “a renowned voice in Thanh, a name that echoed across the land of Phú.” Unfortunately, the original structure no longer stands. The entire architectural complex was rebuilt in the mid-19th century and has been further restored in recent years.

The Phú Khê Communal House is a beautiful and grand structure, situated in a lofty and tranquil location, with significant artistic and architectural value. The total area of the grounds is 5,436 m², divided into three sacred halls: the front hall, dedicated to the two tutelary gods of the village; the second hall, which honors the Holy Mother; and the third hall, which enshrines the Buddha.

The Main Temple

According to legend, in the year 1039 of the10th century, when the Ai Lao invaders attacked, King Lý Thái Tông had to personally lead the army into battle. During his march, King Lý Thái Tông stopped at Phú Trừng Trang (now Phú Khê village), where the people could gather troops and supplies. That night, the King dreamt of two handsome young men, who introduced themselves as sons of the Chu family from the North, and vowed to assist him in his war efforts. After this strange dream, King Lý Thái Tông summoned the village elders and organized a ritual offering. Later, during the battle, dark clouds and strong winds suddenly appeared, causing the enemy to panic and creating an opportunity for the Lý army to secure victory.

After his victorious return, King Lý Thái Tông ordered the construction of a temple to honor the two deities, Chu Minh and Chu Tuấn. To acknowledge their contributions, the king also granted 37 quan in silver to the villagers to manage the worship, as well as exempting them from military duties and taxes for three years.

The frontside of the communal house

The Communal house yard

The Phú Khê Communal House is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the fusion between folk beliefs and heroic history. Praised by Lê Quý Đôn as "the voice of Thanh's realm," the Phú Khê Communal House also serves as a repository of the unique cultural values of Thanh region.

Festival Images at Phú Khê Communal House (collected)

With its distinctive architectural beauty and the sacredness of its historical stories, the Phú Khê Communal House not only attracts both domestic and international visitors but also stands as an essential part of the journey to explore the renowned landmarks of Thanh Hóa.

Commemorative Stele for Recognizing the Monument

Visiting the Phú Khê Communal House, tourists will have the opportunity to experience the cultural activities of a typical ancient village in Thanh region, such as the Phú Khê village festival, the Phú Khê drum festival, and the traditional Phú Khê opera. In addition, visitors to Phú Khê can enjoy famous specialties from Hoàng Hóa, including "phi cầu Sải tiến vua" (a royal offering), "lệch sông Cung nấu ám" (a local dish), or dishes made from "móng tay sông Bút" (a regional ingredient). With its rich cultural and historical significance, the Phú Khê Communal House was recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Monument by Decision 208/QĐ-BTBVH on March 13, 1990.

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