Nestled just 20 kilometers from the vibrant capital of Hanoi, in Từ Sơn city, Bắc Ninh province, lies the majestic Dền Đô. This historical and cultural site isn’t just a monument; it’s a testament to Vietnam’s rich heritage and the indelible marks left by the Lý dynasty. With its free entrance, Dền Đô welcomes visitors daily from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM, allowing anyone to delve into the magnificence of this ancient temple.
Dền Đô Temple – A Cultural Gem of Bắc Ninh
The Rich History of Dền Đô
Constructed in the early 11th century, Dền Đô was established to honor eight kings of the Lý dynasty, revered for their contributions to the nation’s inception and preservation. Legend narrates that after King Lý Thái Tổ transferred the capital from Hoa Lư to Đại La (now Hanoi), upon revisiting his homeland, locals erected a grand house to welcome him. Following the king’s passing, Lý Thái Tông transformed this abode into a sacred shrine for his father.
Dền Đô stands as one of the best-preserved architectural marvels from the Lý dynasty, showcasing a harmonious fusion of royal architectural styles with folk elements. The use of precious lim wood and honeycomb stone in its structure, adorned with intricate carvings, illustrates the exceptional craftsmanship of that era.
Intricate Carvings at Dền Đô
Rich in artistry, Dền Đô features stone and wood sculptures depicting various themes such as dragons, phoenixes, and lotus flowers. These masterpieces not only possess high artistic value but also reflect the worldview, spirituality, and way of life of the Vietnamese during the Lý dynasty.
With such immense cultural and historical significance, Dền Đô is not only a spiritual destination but also a captivating site to deepen one’s understanding of Vietnamese history and culture.
Unique Architectural Features
Spanning over 31,000 square meters, Dền Đô comprises two main areas: the inner sanctum and the outer grounds.
The Inner Sanctum
The inner sanctum includes notable structures like Cổ Pháp điện, Tiền tế house, Hậu cung house, Mộ bia house, Tả vu house, and Hữu vu house. The majesty of the Ngũ Long Môn gate, adorned with five soaring dragon motifs, symbolizes the prosperity of the Lý dynasty. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the stunning view of the Phương Đình house, which houses the altar for King Lý Thái Tổ, enveloped in aromatic incense that reflects the reverence of the faithful.
The Outer Grounds
The outer grounds contain enchanting sites, including a crescent lake, the Thủy đình pavilion, Văn Chỉ house, and Võ Chỉ house. Each of these areas contributes to the overall serene and sacred atmosphere of Dền Đô.
The Thủy Đình, perched upon the crescent lake, is a splendid wooden structure decorated with elegant patterns, once serving as a venue for royal water puppetry shows, further enriching the cultural tapestry of this historic site.
Thủy Đình on the Crescent Lake
The impressive Chiếu dời đô tablet, crafted from Bat Trang ceramics, stands as a remarkable highlight. Measuring over 8 meters wide and 3.5 meters high, this tablet is the largest of its kind in Vietnam, proudly displaying the royal edict of Lý Thái Tổ that reflects his strategic vision for the capital’s relocation.
Best Time to Visit Dền Đô
The ideal period to explore Dền Đô is during the annual Đền Đô Festival, celebrated from the 14th to the 16th of March in the lunar calendar. This festive occasion features vibrant traditional rituals, including processions, prayer ceremonies, and incense offerings, expressing deep gratitude for the kings of the Lý dynasty.
Festival at Dền Đô Temple
For those unable to visit during the festival, Dền Đô remains inviting year-round, offering visitors a tranquil environment and a wealth of cultural experiences awaiting discovery.
How to Get to Dền Đô
By Motorcycle or Car
To reach Dền Đô from Hanoi, two main routes are available:
Route 1: Cross the Chương Dương Bridge, follow Nguyễn Văn Cừ Road, then Hà Huy Tập Road leading directly to Từ Sơn. Look for the sign directing you to Dền Đô.
Route 2: Take the Vĩnh Tuy Bridge to Route 5, then to National Highway 1A towards Phủ Chẩn. Turn left as per the signs to arrive at Dền Đô.
By Bus
Visitors can also take bus numbers 10, 54, or 203 from Hanoi, stopping at Từ Sơn bus station. From there, a short taxi or motorbike ride will take you to Dền Đô.
By Coach
Coaches from Gia Lâm bus station (Hanoi) head towards Từ Sơn bus station. The final leg to Dền Đô can be completed via local transportation.
Tips for Visiting Dền Đô
When planning your visit to Dền Đô, keep in mind a few essential guidelines to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience:
- Dress modestly in long-sleeved clothing, avoiding revealing attire.
- Prepare offerings prior to your visit, adhering to the rituals outlined by temple staff.
- Refrain from placing coins on altar statues; kindly contribute to designated donation boxes instead.
- Limit personal valuables and be cautious of your surroundings to prevent loss or theft.
- Switch off mobile phone ringtones before entering and remove shoes as per temple etiquette.
- Maintain a respectful noise level to not disturb the solemn atmosphere.
- Practice cleanliness and refrain from littering – respect the sanctity of this sacred space.
- Engage in traditional rituals as guided by temple personnel.
Dền Đô is a perfect destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Vietnam’s history, culture, and spirituality. As you explore its unique architecture and participate in local traditions, you will also indulge in the delightful specialties of the Kinh Bắc region. Stay tuned to MIA.vn for more extraordinary destinations in Vietnam and beyond!
Your journey into the heart of Vietnamese history starts here. Have you had the chance to visit Dền Đô? What were your impressions? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below or explore more travel articles on our website!