Khánh Trạch Temple - Thiên Vương Pagoda

22/12/2024 39 0
Tthe Khánh Trạch Temple - Thiên Vương Pagoda relic complex is one of the prominent spiritual destinations, rich in cultural and historical significance, serving as a place of worship and belief as well as a distinctive cultural space closely connected to the spiritual roots of the coastal people.
Narration

Khánh Trạch Temple - Thiên Vương Pagoda

The Historical and Cultural Relics of Khánh Trạch Temple - Thiên Vương Pagoda

Located in Bình Minh Ward, Nghi Sơn Town, Thanh Hóa Province, the Khánh Trạch Temple - Thiên Vương Pagoda relic complex is one of the prominent spiritual destinations, rich in cultural and historical significance, serving as a place of worship and belief as well as a distinctive cultural space closely connected to the spiritual roots of the coastal people.

Khánh Trạch Temple - Thiên Vương Pagoda: Serenity Amidst the Cool Shade of Trees

According to historical records, Khánh Trạch Temple – Thiên Vương Pagoda dates back to the Hồng Đức period (15th century) and is one of the places of worship for Princess Liễu Hạnh, one of the "Four Immortals" in Vietnamese folk beliefs. Princess Liễu Hạnh is a symbol of sanctity and protection of moral values and prosperity, and she is worshipped and prayed to by many devotees.

After several destructions, Khánh Trạch Temple was restored on its original site in 2005. It features a shaped structure, consisting of the front hall, central hall, and inner sanctum. By 2010, Thiên Vương Pagoda was gradually restored by the local people and government. The pagoda is now built in with a front hall and upper sanctuary.

Khánh Trạch Temple – Thiên Vương Pagoda is located on a high, flat area of over 2,000m², in a prime location known as "Thăng Long Bí Châu", which means it sits on the forehead of the dragon, creating a sacred and peaceful space. The pagoda follows traditional design, featuring three main halls, an inner sanctum, and an altar with a statue of Princess Liễu Hạnh made of bronze, weighing around 40kg. This statue symbolizes the strength and protection of the princess for the community.

The Stone Stele Preserved in the Courtyard

In addition to the main statue, the pagoda also preserves various ritual items, including exquisite inlaid lacquered wooden boards, decorated with mother-of-pearl, which are rich in national cultural and artistic significance. The architecture of the pagoda and temple not only reflects solemnity but also showcases the harmonious combination of folk beliefs and traditional Vietnamese architectural art.

The Worship Area

Every year, from the first to the third month of the lunar calendar, Khánh Trạch Temple – Thiên Vương Pagoda welcomes thousands of visitors and local residents to participate in the festival. This is an occasion for people to pray for peace, good fortune, health, and prosperity in the new year. The festival at the temple is not only a time to express reverence for Princess Liễu Hạnh, but also an opportunity for the community to connect with spiritual cultural values and strengthen their faith in the good things that lie ahead in the future.

The Worship Area

The rituals at the temple include incense offerings, prayers, hát chầu văn (a type of ceremonial singing), and other community activities, creating a sacred yet very friendly and harmonious atmosphere. This is an occasion when many visitors from distant regions come to participate, seeking peace and good fortune in life.

The Exterior Courtyard of the Temple

Together with visiting this site, tourists can combine their trip with visits to other famous landmarks such as: the Temple of Quận Công Lê Đình Châu, the Temple of Đào Duy Từ, the Temple of Quang Trung, the Lạch Bạng Temple, the Trường Lâm Scenic Area, and more. Visitors can also enjoy the local seafood specialties or traditional dishes of the region. Khánh Trạch Temple, located in the Khánh Trạch Temple – Thiên Vương Pagoda relic complex, has been recognized as a Provincial Historical and Cultural Relic by Decision No. 2519/QĐ-UBND dated August 4, 2011, falling under the category of historical and cultural tourism.

Related Post

Twitter