Whispers of ancient tales surround Đình Nghi Tầm. This isn’t just any shrine. Đình Nghi Tầm holds a history stretching back centuries. It stands proudly in Quang An ward Tay Ho district. It’s located just before the Thang Loi Hotel. The beautiful West Lake graces its right side.
Long ago before it was called Đình Nghi Tầm this area was farmland. During the Lý dynasty King Lý Thần Tông reigned. He established the Tự Hoa Palace for his wife. She taught silk production here. During the Trần dynasty (1275-1400) this place was known as Tích Ma. It was famous for its mulberry fields. Silkworms thrived. Fragrant flowers blossomed. Birds sang sweetly.
Later during the reign of Queen Trịnh Giang (1729-1740) she loved the beauty of Nghi Tầm. She commissioned the construction of a palace. A bathing pier was built. Nghi Tầm became a stunning scene on West Lake. The famous Kim Liên pond exists nearby. It’s a beautiful lotus pond. The water is clear and reflective. It offers a wonderful view of West Lake.
Bà Huyện Thanh Quan a famous 19th-century poet lived here. She wrote many celebrated poems. Her works evoke Nghi Tầm’s beauty.
Legends tell of three deities enshrined within Đình Nghi Tầm. Minh Khế Đức Thành Triều Đình Phù Quốc and Bảo Trung Cường Đoan. They are considered protectors of Tay Hồ. One story tells of King Lý Thái Tông. He was caught in a storm. He took shelter in a small temple. The temple is where Đình Nghi Tầm stands. The local people brought him food and shelter. The king was impressed by their kindness. He granted them land for a temple.
After the king died the people mourned. They honored his memory. Years later elders remembered the king’s visit. The three deities were recognized for their protection of the people. They were praised for their help during times of hardship. They are revered as powerful protectors. They bring peace and prosperity to the community.
Today Đình Nghi Tầm remains a vital cultural center. The people celebrate their annual village festival on February 10th. They process to Kim Liên pond. Then they return to Đình Nghi Tầm. Games and festivities are enjoyed. The shrine stands as a testament to its enduring legacy. It’s a place of spiritual significance. It’s also a place of cultural preservation. Đình Nghi Tầm keeps alive the stories of the past. The spirit of Nghi Tầm continues to inspire.