The enchanting beauty of Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda in Ninh Binh is one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam, well-known to many tourists for its numerous records. When visiting, you will be impressed by the unique architecture and strong Buddhist character of the pagoda. In addition, the pagoda is a sacred place with many meaningful activities for Buddhists and tourists .

Upon returning to Vietnam, foreign photographer Benjamin Tortorelli was captivated by the beauty of Bai Dinh Pagoda and created the photo series "Temples Enchantment - The Enchanting Beauty of a Pagoda". This series was also submitted to the "Happy Vietnam" photo and video contest , organized by the Ministry of Information and Communications .

Bai Dinh Pagoda is an ancient temple that has witnessed thousands of years of Vietnam's glorious history. It was founded in 1136 by Zen Master Nguyen Minh Khong in Ninh Binh province, within the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. He is known as one of the high-ranking monks who made significant contributions to the establishment and development of Buddhism in the area.

For over 1000 years, the pagoda has existed throughout the history of three major dynasties: the Dinh, the Early Le, and the Ly dynasties. During the period when Dinh Tien Hoang unified the country and quelled the rebellion of the 12 warlords, he chose Bai Dinh Pagoda as the place to establish an altar to pray for heavenly harmony and earthly blessings.

The temple's architecture is distinguished by its large, majestic structures bearing a strong Vietnamese imprint, utilizing many primary local materials such as Ninh Binh blue stone, ironwood, and Bat Trang glazed tiles…

Furthermore, the pagoda was also where King Quang Trung erected an altar to offer sacrifices and share his thoughts with his soldiers before the decisive battle against the invading Qing army. Having weathered numerous historical upheavals and vicissitudes, Bai Dinh Pagoda in Ninh Binh still stands tall and majestic, defying all storms and tribulations.

Vietnam.vn