Perhaps the most surprising thing about \u0110\u00ecnh Ch\u00e8m is its orientation. Unlike most Vietnamese temples it faces north. But that is just one unique aspect of this special place.
Welcome to \u0110\u00ecnh Ch\u00e8m a historic temple in Hanoi. It is more than just a building. It is a repository of legends. This ancient temple has stood for over 2000 years. It has witnessed the ebb and flow of Vietnamese history.
\u0110\u00ecnh Ch\u00e8m is dedicated to Ly Ong Trong also known as Duc Thanh Chem. He was a revered general. He served during the Hung Kings and An Duong Vuong dynasties. Ly Ong Trong was not only a warrior. He was also a diplomat and is considered Vietnam’s first diplomat. He helped King Tan defeat the Hung No invaders. Legend says he even married a princess.
Locals from three villages worship here. These villages are Hoang Mac and Chem. \u0110\u00ecnh Ch\u00e8m stands as a testament to their shared faith. The temple has undergone many renovations. Each one has added to its unique architectural style. It showcases a blend of ancient artistry.
The structure is built in the “inner palace outer country” style. This style reflects careful detailed construction. The outer gate features four large pillars. These are decorated with mythical creatures. The inner gate has a four-roof structure. Its curved corners resemble dragon heads. Inside statues of generals war elephants and horses stand guard. They honor Duc Thanh’s military prowess.
The architecture shows intricate carvings. These carvings depict sacred animals. Dragons intertwine with water scenes. Fish leap over the Wu Mon gate. The carvings do not follow a symmetrical pattern. This adds to the temple’s unique charm.
Above the main hall a carving shows a phoenix reciting poetry. This poem took two years to complete. This tells us about the dedication of the craftsmen. In 1990 \u0110\u00ecnh Ch\u00e8m was recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Site. In 2018 it became a Special National Monument.
The Chem Temple Festival is a major event. It takes place annually from the 14th to the 16th of the fifth lunar month. The festival honors Ly Ong Trong. It includes a water procession. People from the three villages participate. They collect water from the Red River to bathe the statues of Duc Ong and his wife. Traditional games are also part of the festivities. These include swimming wrestling and cooking competitions.
During the French colonial period \u0110\u00ecnh Ch\u00e8m served as a secret refuge. Revolutionary soldiers hid here. They planned their activities. Hoang Quoc Viet a prominent revolutionary found shelter here.
In 1902 the entire temple was raised. It was lifted by 2.4 meters. The villagers used basic farming tools for the job. It took a year to complete this remarkable feat. This shows the community’s determination.
\u0110\u00ecnh Ch\u00e8m continues to inspire awe. It connects the past with the present. Its unique architecture symbolizes Vietnamese pride.