Clutching ancient secrets, the Kim Liên Pagoda stands gracefully by the West Lake in Hanoi. It’s not in Ho Chi Minh City. Our journey today takes us not to the bustling streets of Saigon, but to the serene waters of Hanoi’s West Lake, where the Kim Liên Pagoda whispers tales of centuries past. The Kim Liên Pagoda, also known as the Golden Lotus Pagoda, isn’t just a beautiful temple. It’s a historical landmark, a cultural symbol, and a place of deep spiritual significance. The pagoda’s history is intertwined with royalty and legend. Tradition says it was built on the site of the 12th-century Tu Hoa Palace. This palace belonged to Princess Tu Hoa, daughter of King Ly Than Tong. The princess, passionate about silk production, used this area for raising silkworms and mulberry trees. After her passing, a temple was erected in her memory, eventually evolving into the Kim Liên Pagoda we see today. The current structure, however, isn’t from the 12th century. Records indicate that a pagoda named Dai Bi was built on this site in 1631, funded by locals. It underwent expansions and renovations over the years. Then in 1771, Lord Trinh Sam ordered a significant reconstruction. Parts of the Bao Lam Pagoda were even used in this renovation, and the temple was renamed Kim Liên Pagoda. The final restoration, which gave the pagoda its present-day appearance, occurred in 1792. The pagoda is renowned for its distinctive architecture. The three-gate entrance resembles a lotus flower blossoming on the West Lake. Intricate carvings of dragons, flowers, and leaves adorn the wooden details. The vibrant red and yellow hues of the columns and roof evoke the imperial past. Inside, approximately 50 statues, primarily from the 18th and 19th centuries, grace the halls. Among them are the prominent figures of Princess Tu Hoa and Lord Trinh. The Kim Liên Pagoda continues to be a vibrant center for Buddhist practices and cultural celebrations. It attracts both locals and tourists who come to admire its beauty and soak in its peaceful atmosphere.
Центральный дом работников искусств
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