The Tien Pagoda - Dam Da scenic complex is fascinating.

Located at the foot of Tung Xe Mountain, the Tien Pagoda - Dam Da Tourist Area in Lac Thuy Commune is a famous complex of temples and caves. Thanks to its mystical spiritual atmosphere and the convergence of long-standing cultural and historical values, this destination attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors and pilgrims every year.

The villagers are always proud of the history of the temple, which dates back hundreds of years. In 2007, Tien Temple was rebuilt with impressive architecture, combining ancient and modern elements with curved red tiled roofs, creating a solemn and sacred space. In 1989, Tien Temple was recognized as a historical and cultural relic, a milestone affirming the cultural and spiritual value of the destination.

Along with groups of pilgrims visiting the Tien Pagoda and the Tien Pagoda - Dam Da spiritual tourism complex, we felt the solemnity, spaciousness, and refined atmosphere, reflecting the unique style of the pagoda. Mr. Do Danh Ngoc, representative of the Lac Thuy Relics Management Board, introduced: Each structure in the pagoda has its own characteristics, perfectly combining traditional architectural art and spiritual elements.

The main hall of the temple is dedicated to Mother Au Co, one of the most important deities in Vietnamese folk beliefs. The main hall is built in the shape of the Chinese character "Công" (three bays, two wings), with a soaring curved roof covered in traditional red tiles. A special highlight is the ornate horizontal plaques, couplets, and decorative paintings, imbued with rich folk cultural values, reflecting the majesty and sacredness of the place of worship. Alongside this, the altar to Mother Au Co is placed prominently, intricately carved with symbols of worship, emphasizing the sacred relationship between the country and the nation. The walls on either side are decorated with paintings and wooden statues depicting deities, ancestors, and legends of the Vietnamese people.

Besides the main hall, the Tien Pagoda complex also includes many auxiliary structures serving religious ceremonies and activities. One notable feature is the pagoda's bell tower, built high above the ground, its resonant bell sound creating a sense of peace and tranquility. The bell's sound is not only a signal of a sacred space but also an invitation for pilgrims to visit this holy place. In addition, the pagoda has a spacious garden area where visitors can stroll, admire the scenery, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The gardens are skillfully arranged with various flowers and ornamental plants, creating a harmonious natural landscape.

On their journey to explore the Tien Pagoda - Dam Da spiritual tourism complex, visitors can also visit many caves and offer incense at other temples, such as the Ong Hoang Bay Temple, the Co Chin Temple, and the Thanh Tan Vien Temple. Each temple has its own unique space, decorated with statues of deities, paintings, and characteristic worship items. The Ong Hoang Bay Temple is located in a high position, from where visitors can admire the entire surrounding area with its lush green fields and majestic mountain ranges. These temples are not only places for praying for blessings, but also places for preserving and protecting the beliefs of the local people.

Notably, the tourist area boasts two prominent attractions: the Au Co Mother Cave and the Tam Hoa Cave. The Au Co Mother Cave is dedicated to Au Co, the mother who gave birth to the Lac Hong descendants, according to folk legend. The Tam Hoa Cave is associated with the story of three deities revered by the local people. The Au Co Mother Cave is located at the foot of the mountain, in a spacious and cool area. From a distance, the cave resembles a giant incense burner, creating a mystical and sacred atmosphere. Near the Tien Pagoda area, there are also the Suoi Vang and Suoi Bac caves, two wonderful places for visitors to explore. The clear, cool streams winding around the caves, along with the gentle sound of flowing water, provide a relaxing feeling, making visitors feel as if they have entered a fairy-tale world amidst nature.

Every year at the beginning of spring, visitors from all over flock to Tien Pagoda for the festival, to offer incense and pay respects to the deities, especially Mother Au Co, the mother of the Hung Kings, a legendary figure of special significance in Vietnamese folklore. This is also an opportunity for people to express their wishes for blessings and peace for their families, and for a strong and prosperous nation.

Lasting from the 4th day of the Lunar New Year until the end of the 3rd lunar month, the Tien Pagoda festival season is also the time when the tourist area attracts the most visitors of the year. During this time, the local organizing committee holds many sacred traditional rituals, such as: offering incense and praying for peace at the main hall of Tien Pagoda – where deities, especially Mother Au Co, are worshipped; forming three processions carrying palanquins from Trinh Temple, Mau Temple, and Trung communal house to gather at Tien Pagoda courtyard. Many lively folk cultural activities take place, creating a joyful atmosphere and fostering community cohesion: traditional folk singing; lion and dragon dances; folk games such as stick pushing, throwing the ball, tug-of-war, and volleyball competitions...

Bui Minh

Source: https://baophutho.vn/hap-dan-quan-the-danh-thang-chua-tien--dam-da-240116.htm