Lý Nam Đế King Temple

Xã Vạn Xuân, Tam Nông, Phú Thọ

Cultural Heritage (1 review, 5 stars)

Đền thờ Lý Nam Đế is a revered and meticulously constructed site situated on the Cổ Bồng hill in Văn Lang village, now part of administrative zone 10 in Vạn Xuân commune. This location is closely associated with the dynamic landscape of Khuất Lão cave. The site covers an expansive area of over 5 hectares.

The overall architectural layout of the Historical Site of Lý Nam Đế’s Temple comprises various elements, including the ceremonial gate, Lý Nam Đế’s tomb, Thần Nông altar, temple, Tả vu, Hữu vu, garden, lotus pond, and technical infrastructure. Commencing the temple complex is the ceremonial gate, a four-pillar structure with three entrances, constructed in a traditional style. Two large pillars at the top are adorned with four phoenix sculptures facing each cardinal direction, their tails interlocked. Two smaller pillars feature unicorn sculptures in a bowing posture. Lý Nam Đế’s tomb was reconstructed in 2010 with an architectural style following the “front first, rear later” pattern, consisting of two sections: Tiền tế (front temple) and Hậu cung (rear palace).

The interior of the architecture is adorned with intricate carvings on the doors, horizontal lacquered boards with couplets, and elegant decorative elements, creating a grand and magnificent ambiance. A worship platform, constructed by the Văn Lang villagers in 2006, allows for the burning of incense in honor of Lý Nam Đế. The open-air worship platform is constructed from cement, with an elevated surface displaying the words “Thiên Đức” (Heavenly Virtue). The primary Lý Nam Đế temple, comprising the Great Worship Hall and the Rear Palace, was constructed in August 2018.

The main hall of the temple houses the altar with a bronze statue of Lý Nam Đế seated on a throne, depicting a majestic and imposing figure. The temple’s interior is solemnly decorated with embossed door patterns, hanging couplets, carved pillars, and detailed ornamentation in gold and silver. Following nearly a year of construction, the project was completed and inaugurated on May 28, 2019. It caters to the cultural, spiritual, and tourism needs of the local population.

On December 16, 2020, the People’s Committee of Phú Thọ province officially designated the Lý Nam Đế Temple as a provincial-level historical and cultural relic under Decision No. 3289/QD-UBND. Annually, at the historical site of Lý Nam Đế’s temple and tomb on Gò Cổ Bồng in Vạn Xuân commune, local authorities and residents organize ceremonies and prayer days. There are four prayer days each year, with the grandest celebration taking place during the Lunar New Year, commemorating the day Lý Nam Đế began his reign. This event attracts a large crowd and features various lively and skillful traditional games.

In addition to commemorating historical events, these festivities serve to honor the achievements of ancestors in nation-building and preservation. Notably, on the 12th day of the 3rd lunar month, a memorial ceremony is held to remember the day Lý Nam Đế passed away. On the 9th day of the 9th lunar month, a celebration marks Lý Nam Đế’s birthday. The historical site of the Lý Nam Đế Temple and tomb holds significant historical and cultural value, fostering a sense of reverence and gratitude for those who contributed to the nation’s defense. It also contributes to the preservation of the nation’s cultural identity, imparting a sense of patriotism to present and future generations.

In the future, it is hoped that the Lý Nam Đế Temple and other related historical sites connected to the Lý Bí uprising in Vạn Xuân commune, Tam Nông district, will become a spiritually captivating destination in tours exploring the roots of Phú Thọ province.