HCM CITY - The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced the recognition of five historical sites as Việt Nam's special national relics on January 22, 2025.
The newly recognized sites include Ponagar Temple in Nha Trang City, Bối Khê Pagoda in Hà Nội, Xám Temple in Nam Định Province, the relic complex of the Mạc dynasty, and the relic complex of Từ Lương Xâm in Hải Phòng City.
Ponagar Temple, built by the Chăm people between the 8th and 13th centuries, remains a significant place of worship dedicated to Yang Ino Pon Nagar, the goddess of the Liu clan. Originally comprising seven or eight towers, only four have survived. The site was designated as a national relic in 1979.
Lê Văn Hoa, deputy director of the Khánh Hòa Department of Culture and Sports, noted that this recognition would aid in the preservation and restoration of Ponagar Temple, promote Chăm culture, and enhance tourism.
Bối Khê Pagoda, over 600 years old, is among the oldest in northern Việt Nam. It honors Buddha, Tam Tòa Thánh Mẫu (The Three Holy Mothers), and Đức Thánh Bối Nguyễn Đình An, who is celebrated for repelling Chinese invaders. The pagoda showcases religious influences from the Trúc Lâm Zen sect, Taoism, and Confucianism, along with various architectural styles.
Xám Temple is dedicated to Trần Lãm, a prominent warlord during the Anarchy of the 12 Warlords period from 965 to 968. Constructed entirely of ironwood and featuring traditional Vietnamese tiles, it is known for its unique architectural details and ornamental patterns. It was recognized as a national relic in 1964.
The Mạc dynasty relic site in Hải Phòng's Kiến Thụy District spans 10.5 hectares and served as the first coastal capital of the regime, honoring its kings and housing invaluable antiques. The Từ Lương Xâm complex in Hải An District is dedicated to Ngô Quyền, the founder of the Ngô dynasty, and was historically significant as his military base during the battle against the Southern Hán Dynasty in 938.