Chùa Trung Tự

Tucked away on Đê La Thành Street, Chùa Trung Tự, also known as Phúc Long Tự, beckons. This seemingly unassuming temple holds centuries of stories within its walls. Chùa Trung Tự sits near the route leading into Khâm Thiên. It’s also just a short walk from Trung Tự and Kim Liên. The temple faces the southwest, offering a peaceful view of the bustling street. This street runs parallel to the newly renovated Xã Đàn, a testament to Hanoi’s ever-evolving landscape. Chùa Trung Tự was recognized for its historical and cultural significance in 1992. While the temple grounds may appear modest, they house a wealth of documents and artifacts related to Trung Tự, spanning from the Lê dynasty to the present day. A surviving stele reveals Chùa Trung Tự has long been a Buddhist sanctuary, maintained by nuns and supported by devout Buddhists from various areas, including Đông Tác, Thọ Xương, and even as far back as Thăng Long. From the August Revolution of 1945 to the early days of 1947, Chùa Trung Tự served as a meeting point for those involved in the resistance against the French in Hanoi. After the devastating Christmas bombings of 1972 ravaged the Khâm Thiên area, the temple provided temporary shelter for several families who lost everything. In August 2010, Chùa Trung Tự hosted the “Praying for the Source of Water” ceremony. This significant event brought together Buddhists, locals, and representatives from various temples and war memorials across the country. General Võ Nguyên Giáp even sent a message, urging everyone to remember the fallen heroes. Over the years, Chùa Trung Tự has undergone several renovations, most notably in 1892, 1894, and 1925. These renovations reflect the architectural style of the late Nguyễn dynasty, obscuring the temple’s original appearance. The temple was destroyed by French forces in 1947 and rebuilt in 1951 under the guidance of Thích Đàm Châm. Entering Chùa Trung Tự, you’ll notice a small courtyard leading to the main hall. The main hall, or Tam Bảo, is a two-story structure with a three-compartment front and a connected back area, forming a “Đinh” shape. Inside, various Buddha statues adorn the altar, each a testament to the temple’s rich history and enduring faith.