Trù Mật Temple

Xã Văn Lung, Thị xã Phú Thọ, Phú Thọ

Cultural Heritage

Đền Trù Mật, also known as the Lăng Temple, stands as a nationally recognized historical and cultural relic located in Văn Lung commune, Phú Thọ town, Phú Thọ province. It is a significant site for worshiping General Kiều Thuận, who guarded this region during the period of the 12 military commanders (12 sứ quân), and his lieutenant, Ma Xuân Trường. Among the temples dedicated to Kiều Thuận, Đền Trù Mật holds a special place, being nationally ranked by the state as the most exemplary historical relic.

According to the legendary tale “Cương nghị thông minh Chiêu huệ Đại vương phả lục,” compiled by the academician Nguyễn Bính Phụng in 1572, Đền Trù Mật was constructed and completed on the 16th of October in the year Canh Ngọ 970 under the reign of King Đinh Tiên Hoàng. Also known as the Lăng Temple, it serves as both a mausoleum and a shrine for General Kiều Thuận, situated on a low hill in the Trù Mật village, adjacent to Phú An village.

Built during the Lý dynasty with a southeast orientation, the temple features Đinh-style architecture and consists of two main structures: Đại bái (Main Hall) and Hậu cung (Rear Palace).

Đại bái (Main Hall):

Comprising three sections with a dual-pitched roof covered with tiled mũi hài.

The entrance boasts intricately carved wooden doors with relief motifs.

Previously open for ventilation, the front was later enclosed with walls.

Utilizes a wooden frame structure in the style of stacked bathtubs with hanging bell brackets.

The seven parts of the column and base feature delicate carvings of mythical creatures.

The floor is paved with octagonal tiles.

Hậu cung (Rear Palace):

Consists of three sections with a dual-pitched chuôi vồ roof.

The floor is paved with octagonal tiles.

The roof is tiled in a concave shape at the corners, creating a flowing chalice design, adorned with floral patterns.

The entrance features wooden doors with relief carvings and a table.

Wooden frame structure with dragon-head carvings on the eaves.

Elaborate carvings on the brackets depict cloud clusters and leaves.

Currently, the three villages of Trù Mật, Phú An, and Khuân commune jointly organize a festival at Đền Trù Mật. Commemorative events include the anniversary of the death of General Kiều Thuận on the 4th day of the Lunar New Year, his birthday celebration on the 18th day of the second month (Lunar calendar), and the temple’s founding anniversary on the 16th day of the tenth month (Lunar calendar). The festival features solemn ceremonies following ancient rituals in compliance with legal regulations. Additionally, there are cultural and artistic activities, as well as traditional folk games such as lion dance, xinh tiền singing and dancing, chèo singing, kite flying, tug-of-war, cockfighting, and chess competitions.

The traditional festival at Đền Trù Mật is a cherished custom of the local people, deeply rooted in humane values. It reflects the tradition of revering ancestors, expressing gratitude for the merits of the forefathers, and praying for national prosperity, peaceful lives, and happiness for every family.