Ancient fig trees in Tan Trao

When talking about Tan Trao, people often mention historical landmarks that have become legendary, such as Na Nua hut, Hong Thai communal house, and the Tan Trao banyan tree… but there is a special “witness” that has stood there for hundreds of years, embracing and protecting this land: the old row of fig trees. This row of fig trees is not just a row of trees; it has become a symbol of this revolutionary homeland.

The rows of banyan trees in Tan Trao cast shade on both sides of the road, welcoming visitors to this revolutionary homeland.

The green fortress…

Located right in Bong village, Tan Trao commune, the ancient row of banyan trees has existed for an unknown period of time. All that is known is that for hundreds of years, it has stood there majestically, proudly reaching out with an ancient and sacred appearance.

The nearly 500-meter stretch of road is lined with ancient banyan trees, their trunks large, tall, and their canopies wide. Branches intertwine, leaves overlap, forming a natural, soft yet sturdy green archway. Thanks to their dense, dark green foliage, the banyan trees in Tan Trao possess a unique beauty, filling anyone who sets foot there with a sense of peace and tranquility.

The sacredness of the row of banyan trees has become an integral part of the villagers' way of thinking and living. On a clear autumn afternoon, with golden sunlight pouring like honey onto the lush green road, we had the opportunity to chat with Mrs. Vien Thi Soa, nearly 90 years old, who has spent almost her entire life in this land. She recounted: “Since I was born, this row of banyan trees has been at the edge of the village. Our ancestors told us that from the time of clearing the land and establishing the village, those who came to settle planted this row of banyan trees right at the beginning of the road. Over the years, the row of banyan trees has become a sturdy fortress, embracing and protecting the village.”

For the people here, each ancient banyan tree is not just an ordinary tree, but a "living witness," having seen generations of Tan Trao's children grow up and mature. From a young age, everyone is taught by their grandparents and parents not to damage or climb these precious banyan trees. Mr. Ma Thanh Van, from Bong village, Tan Trao commune, shared: "These are considered sacred 'ancient trees,' gathering the spiritual energy of the earth and sky for hundreds of years, bringing peace and good fortune. Therefore, for generations, whenever people pass by the row of banyan trees, they show special respect."

Tourists check in at the Tan Trao banyan tree grove.

Beyond its spiritual and cultural significance, the ancient banyan tree grove of Tan Trao is also a historical testament to our ancestors' contributions to nation-building and national defense. During the years of resistance, the grove witnessed generations of forefathers coming to Tan Trao – a historical land that was once the center of the "Capital of the Liberation Zone" and the "Capital of the Resistance."

With such immense value, the awareness of preserving and protecting the row of banyan trees has become deeply ingrained in the consciousness of every resident of Tan Trao. Comrade Ma Van Yen, Head of Bong village, shared: “The villagers always remind each other to take care of the banyan trees. No one is allowed to climb or cut them down. Every two or three years, a few young men in the village are assigned a special task: pruning the old branches to shape the canopy and help the trees grow better.”

Honor and preserve

The ancient row of banyan trees, with its unique beauty and significance, has become a must-visit check-in spot. Many tourists stop by the row of banyan trees to immerse themselves in nature and take unique, historically significant souvenir photos. In particular, it has become an endless source of inspiration for photographers.

The gnarled, ancient banyan trees are witnesses to time, sheltering the people of Tan Trao through countless years.

"I can't count how many times I've brought my camera here. The beauty of the banyan tree grove lies not only in its antiquity, but also in the life stories it tells. Everyone who comes here to take photos feels a sense of peace mixed with pride," shared Le Hong Duc, a photographer.

With its immense historical, cultural, and tourism value, the ancient row of banyan trees is being nurtured by the government and people of Tan Trao with great aspirations. Comrade Duong Minh Tuan, Chairman of the Tan Trao Commune People's Committee, shared: “We hope the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism will prepare a dossier to propose that the old banyan tree row be recognized as a Vietnamese Heritage Tree. This is not only an honor, but also a basis for a scientific plan to preserve and restore the trees, maintaining their pristine and rustic beauty.”

To enhance the landscape, Tan Trao commune annually plants additional banyan trees along both sides of the road. Now, the entire stretch of road is covered in the green shade of these banyan trees. However, besides preservation, many believe that the Tan Trao banyan trees need unique features to attract more tourists. Ms. Mai Hai Yen, a tour guide from Vietrailval Trading and Service Company Limited (Hanoi), shared: “Many countries around the world have created a 'check-in' craze' by pruning and shaping ancient trees in unique ways. This is a way to attract tourists that the locality should consider, to both preserve the ancient charm and create something new and unique.”

The ancient banyan trees of Tan Trao, with their majestic beauty and age-old sacredness, will forever remain a part of history, a vibrant symbol of the traditions and patriotism of this revolutionary land.

Quang An

Source: https://baotuyenquang.com.vn/van-hoa/202508/rang-duoi-co-thu-o-tan-trao-ee8109e/