Ever wondered what secrets lie beneath our feet here in Xuan La Ward? This area, part of Hanoi’s Tay Ho District, isn’t just another urban neighborhood. It’s a treasure trove of history. Xuan La holds stories stretching back millennia.
Xuan La Ward is more than just a present-day location. It is deeply rooted in the past. Archaeological finds here have revealed a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s Bronze Age. Specifically, the Dong Son culture.
In 1982, a remarkable discovery occurred. Seven coffins were unearthed. These weren’t just any coffins. They contained relics that shed light on ancient burial practices. They also provided insights into the lives of those who lived here centuries ago. These coffins showed similarities to those found in Chau Can. However, they also presented unique challenges to the archaeologists.
The discovery of Chinese coins dating back to the Wang Mang period offered vital clues. These coins helped date the Xuan La burial site to around 9 CE to 23 CE. This places the burials during or after the Xin dynasty.
The burial rituals at Xuan La reveal much about Dong Son society. The deceased were typically placed in wooden coffins. Burial goods accompanied them. These items were placed beside the body, near the ankles, and beyond the skull. Wooden sculptures of human figures were also found among the buried.
One burial included a wooden tray near the ankle region. Two bronze axe heads and several wooden and bamboo objects were also present. Four pottery objects and 36 Chinese coins lay next to the left hand.
Another burial featured a skull placed on a bronze vessel. A wooden sculpture of a human rested beside the left shoulder. A large circular wooden tray covered the knees. A bronze vase-like object stood nearby. This vessel had spiral and geometric patterns.
One more burial contained small pottery vessels inside and outside the coffin. Iron spades were placed under the head of the deceased. Additional spades lay beside the left elbow. A bronze spearhead and arrowhead were near the left hand.
Interestingly, while Xuan La contained iron tools from the Iron Age, the amount of bronze was less than expected. This suggests that Xuan La was likely a provincial center of the Dong Son civilization. It may not have been a major hub of culture and wealth.
Also located in Xuan La Ward is Van Nien Pagoda. It is an ancient temple with a history spanning thousands of years. This sacred site is considered one of Hanoi’s most important. Originally named Van Tue Pagoda, it was later renamed Van Nien Pagoda. It is also known as one of the temples of Vajrayana Buddhism.
The pagoda’s main gate faces West Lake. The pagoda has been renovated many times. The largest restoration occurred in the 19th century under the Nguyen Dynasty.
Van Nien Pagoda’s architecture includes a three-door gate, a main pagoda, a Sang house, and an outhouse. The main pagoda has a 5-room house architecture. It is dedicated to Lieu Hanh Princess. The pagoda preserves a collection of statues and deity figures dating back to the Le and Tay Son dynasties.
So, as we stand here in Xuan La, remember that this ward is a place where the past and present intertwine. It is a place where ancient relics and sacred temples coexist.