Unique architecture of Hang Pagoda in Tra Vinh

(NLDO)- Hang Pagoda in Tra Vinh is not only attractive for its ancient beauty but also contains profound historical and religious values.

Hang Pagoda (Kompong Chray Pagoda) is a Khmer Theravada Buddhist pagoda, located on National Highway 54 (section through Hamlet 3, Chau Thanh town, Tra Vinh province).

VIDEO : Unique architecture of Hang Pagoda

The pagoda was founded in 1637 and has been under the care of 22 abbots. In 1968, during the Tet Offensive, the pagoda was severely damaged by bombs. In 1977, monk Thach Suong (the 23rd abbot) returned and campaigned to restore the pagoda. Since then, through many renovations, the pagoda has become spacious and majestic.

Locals call it Hang Pagoda because the western side gate, facing Highway 54, is built like a system of three caves next to each other. The main gate in the middle is a large cave, the two gates on either side are two small caves. All three gates are solidly built with 12 m thick walls, creating the feeling of standing in the gate as if you were in a cave.

The cave-shaped arched gate of the pagoda is not only an architectural work of art that makes the difference between Hang Pagoda and other Khmer pagodas in the province, but also contains profound historical and religious values.

Gate to Hang Pagoda

In addition to the main hall, where Buddha is worshiped, Hang Pagoda also has areas such as the bell tower, tomb tower area, where valuable historical relics of the Khmer community are preserved.

The entrance to the temple is shaded by green trees.

Like other Khmer pagodas in Tra Vinh, Hang Pagoda is not simply a place of worship and belief but also a place to preserve many traditional cultural and artistic features typical of the Khmer people along with learning and moraleducation activities.

Architecture inside the temple

In particular, for decades, artisans and monks in the temple have maintained the work of wood carving. They have handcrafted unique works from tree stumps of all kinds, sizes and shapes.

Mr. Tran Hoang Phuc (30 years old; living in Long An province), expressed: "I have been to many pagodas in Tra Vinh, but I find Hang Pagoda to have a very unique feature. The entrance to the pagoda is in the shape of an arched cave; the main hall is built on high, airy ground and has many steps leading up with many meticulously carved patterns and motifs. Coming here, I feel very serene and peaceful".

Source: https://nld.com.vn/video-kien-truc-doc-dao-cua-chua-hang-o-tra-vinh-196250202094057254.htm