Here in Hanoi’s Long Bien district lies a place with roots stretching back to the very dawn of Vietnamese civilization Phường Cự Khối. Established as a ward in 2003 it carries a history far older than its official designation.
Phường Cự Khối was once part of the Văn Lang nation during the Hùng Vương dynasty. This dates back to the first millennium BC. At that time it was divided into two communes Thổ Khối and Xuân Đỗ. Over the centuries Phường Cự Khối has been part of various administrations. It was part of Long Biên under Bắc thuộc rule. Under the Lý dynasty it fell under Thiên Đức phủ. During the Trần dynasty it was part of Lộ Bắc Giang. Later under the Hậu Lê dynasty it belonged to Thuận An phủ in Kinh Bắc province which later became Bắc Ninh.
In 1949 the communes of Xuân Khôi and Cự Linh merged to form Cự Khối. Later in 1955 Cự Khối commune was divided into Thạch Bàn and Cự Khối communes. Finally in 2003 Cự Khối was transformed into a ward. It became part of Long Biên district.
Today Phường Cự Khối covers an area of about 4.87 square kilometers. According to a 2021 census it has a population of over 10000 people. Administratively it is bordered by several entities. It shares borders with Gia Lâm district to the east Long Biên ward to the west Hoàng Mai district to the south and Long Biên and Thạch Bàn wards to the north.
Phường Cự Khối is home to several historical sites. Đình Hạ Trại in Thống Nhất village is dedicated to Lữ Lang Đế. He was a general under the Đinh dynasty. He aided Đinh Bộ Lĩnh in quelling the revolt of the 12 warlords. Another notable site is Đình Thổ Khối. It dates back to before 1730. Inside are shrines to six tutelary deities. Three of them were generals under the Đinh dynasty Bạch Đa đại vương Dị Mễ đại vương and Đào thành hoàng. They also helped to suppress the rebellion.
Notably a detailed plan was approved in 2024 for the Cự Khối regulating lake area. The aim is to improve the infrastructure. It also aims to create green spaces in harmony with the Cổ Linh road. It will also try to be in sync with existing residential areas. The regulating lake is meant to help with drainage in the area.
Phường Cự Khối also has a notable figure in its history Đặng Phúc Thông. He lived from 1906 to 1951. His presence highlights the ward’s contribution to Hanoi’s cultural heritage.
So as you explore Phường Cự Khối remember its long history. It stretches from the Hùng Vương era to its modern development. Its temples its figures and its evolving landscape all contribute to Hanoi’s rich history. They highlight its enduring spirit.