Hanoi hosts traditional festival at 1,000-year-old temple and pagoda

THE HANOI TIMES — The festival, which runs through March 20 in Duong Xa Commune, attracts a large number of locals and tourists, offering a unique opportunity to experience the cultural richness of one of  Vietnam’s oldest spiritual sites .

To Huu Vinh, Chairman of the People's Committee of Duong Xa Commune, praised Empress-Regent Y Lan as a reference on how to run a country, highlighting her significant role in making the Ly Dynasty (1009-1225) one of the most glorious periods in Vietnam's history.

According to historical records, Empress Regent Y Lan, born Le Thi Khiet (1044-1117), came from a family in Duong Xa Commune specialized in mulberry cultivation, silkworm breeding, and silk weaving. She was known her beauty, wisdom, and kindness. Concubine of King Ly Thanh Tong (1023-1072) and mother of King Ly Nhan Tong (1066-1128), she served twice as regent, steering the country through critical times and contributing greatly to the stability of the Ly Dynasty.

As a devout Buddhist, she ordered the construction of many pagodas throughout the country during her regency. After her death, she came to be revered as "Ba Tam," similar to the revered figure of Guan Yin, who embodied the virtues of tolerance, compassion, and benevolence. The Ba Tam Temple and Pagoda in Duong Xa Commune became a focal point for worship, honoring her enduring legacy.

Just 16 kilometers from downtown Hanoi, Ba Tam Pagoda is considered one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam, dating back more than 1,000 years. Despite several restorations, the site retains its original architectural features rich in cultural and artistic heritage of the Ly Dynasty. It is considered a rare and precious work of national art with deep historical significance.

The temple complex also houses two of the 27 artifacts designated as "national treasures" in 2019. These include two 12th-century lion statues and a 16th-century gilded wooden altar. These artifacts were recognized for their cultural, historical, and artistic value, as well as their connection to the legacy of Empress-Regent Y Lan.

The annual festival coincided with Duong Xa Tourism Week from March 15-20, and featured a variety of cultural and tourism activities. Main activities included an incense offering ceremony in honor of Empress-Regent Y Lan, folk games, sports competitions, and booths showcasing One Commune One Product (OCOP) goods, providing visitors with a rich, immersive experience of Hanoi's culture and heritage.