Lost in the mists of time, the Temple to Princess, or Đền Bà Chúa, stands as a testament to a forgotten love story. Here, within the vibrant tapestry of Hanoi, lies a sanctuary dedicated to Princess Thúy Tinh, the third daughter of King Lê. This temple, also known as Kim Lien Temple, is more than just a place of worship. It’s a portal to a time when royal intrigue and divine intervention intertwined. Kim Lien Temple is one of four sacred temples built to protect the ancient Thang Long Citadel. It guards the southern entrance, a symbolic position representing intelligence, enlightenment, and new beginnings. Imagine the temple in its heyday, before the 11th century, a small structure nestled on a hill overlooking the Kim Lien lagoon. Then, picture its expansion in the 16th century under King Le Tuong Duc, growing into the magnificent complex we see today. Walk through the main entrance, a three-compartment chamber adorned with phoenixes holding books, mythical unicorns, and swirling clouds. Continue into the grand worshiping hall, a five-compartment chamber filled with the scent of incense and the whispers of ancient prayers. The final chamber, the Forbidden Chamber, was once the residence of Cao Sơn Đại Vương, the deity of agriculture and protection, and his two wives, Princess Thúy Tinh and Mrs. Hue Minh. The temple holds a treasure trove of history. Thirty-nine imperial edicts from the Le and Nguyen dynasties, bestowed upon Cao Sơn, reside within its walls. Thirty-three of these are recognized as national treasures. The centerpiece is a towering stone epitaph from 1510, commemorating Cao Sơn’s aid to King Lê in reclaiming his throne. Although the temple has undergone renovations since 2000, its original architecture remains largely untouched. The spirit of the past still lingers in the air, whispering tales of royal devotion and divine power. The Temple to Princess stands as a silent witness to the passage of time, a place where history and legend converge, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to