Buzz
Phuoc Le Pagoda, the coastal landmark of Vung Tau, is said to have been constructed 200 years ago. Nestled in the heart of Vung Tau city, Phuoc Le Pagoda is regarded as a spiritual and religious site, as well as a popular tourist destination attracting many visitors. This place holds a long history of the land and worships the famous cultural figures of Vietnam.
A Roof Over 200 Years Old
Located in the commercial center, on Street 3 of Phuoc Trung ward, Vung Tau city, it is a hub of cultural and spiritual activities and also a well-known destination for tourists. When visiting Vung Tau, you will hear locals recount that Phuoc Le Pagoda was bestowed the title of Thanh Hoang Lang by Emperor Tu Duc in the late 19th century. To this day, the royal decree remains at the pagoda, stating 'The decree of gratitude to the upright Nguyen Thiep, granting the title of worship to the deity. The Deity protects the people.'
According to the accounts of the elderly, Phuoc Le Pagoda was built over 200 years ago in the remote area of Lo Than. At that time, the pagoda was constructed entirely from renowned precious woods, boasting a vast scale and fame throughout the region. During the French colonial period, the pagoda was burned down, and it wasn't until 1959 that it was rebuilt into the modern architecture seen today.
A Shrine Honoring Great Figures
It is because this place preserves and worships two famous intellectuals and military leaders that it has somewhat become a Vung Tau tourist attraction known to many locals and visitors.
- The Eminent Scholar La Son Phu Tu Nguyen Thiep
Nguyen Thiep, the honored deity worshipped at Phuoc Le Pagoda, is also the only deity revered in Ba Ria - Vung Tau province. He was one of the famous intellectuals of the 18th century, known for his high talent, integrity, and moral uprightness amidst turbulent times. He famously said, 'Virtue remains like the summit of a mountain, pure and fragrant, while principles hide amidst the chaos but remain clear.'
He had various titles but was most widely known and respected as La Son Phu Tu. He devoted his life to the cause of education, spreading knowledge to the masses during the Tay Son period. He was a prominent educator, playing a significant role in popularizing Nôm script and gradually replacing Han characters in the cultural landscape.
With his significant contributions and virtues, after his passing, Nguyen Thiep was revered by the people as the village deity of Phuoc Le Pagoda. He was honored not only for his virtues but also because migrants from Ha Tinh province who settled in Vung Tau built the pagoda to worship their homeland's illustrious figure.
- The Virtuous Saint Tran Hung Dao
The second deity worshipped at Phuoc Le Pagoda is the Virtuous Saint Tran Quoc Tuan, a brilliant general of the Vietnamese people in the 13th century. He led the Dai Viet people to victory against two invasions by the Mongol Yuan army, safeguarding the nation's territories and borders.
Due to his exceptional talents and virtues, he is revered by the people as the Virtuous Saint Tran, with temples dedicated to him throughout the country, including at Phuoc Le Pagoda. Worshipping Virtuous Saint Tran at Phuoc Le Pagoda exemplifies the deeply rooted tradition of respecting teachers and valuing ethics, reminding future generations of the nation's origins.
Exciting Tourist Destination in Vung Tau
Entering Phuoc Le Pagoda, you step into a majestic and imposing structure. As you reach the entrance gate, the red-roofed archway adorned with both Han and Vietnamese characters stands out against the traditional Dinh-style architecture, comprising areas such as ceremonial gates, martial arts grounds, main halls, guesthouses, and kitchens.
One of the most grand and beautiful areas is undoubtedly the main hall. The main hall of Phuoc Le Pagoda is built in a quadrangular style with a curved tiled roof, adorned with intricate gold leaf decorations, depicting peacocks, and dancing phoenixes. In the center, there is an altar dedicated to Thanh Hoang Bon Canh Nguyen Thiếp, flanked by Tả Ban and Hữu Ban, while below, there is an altar for the Virtuous Saint Tran Hung Dao with a statue cast in plaster. Additionally, the pagoda also worships the spirits of 158 local heroes solemnly and respectfully.
Within the compound of the pagoda are two shrines dedicated to the Five Elements Holy Mother and the Water Dragon Holy Mother, symbolizing the natural elements of water, fire, earth, etc. The people of Vung Tau worship these goddesses to pray for bountiful harvests and peaceful lives.
Throughout the year, there are numerous traditional cultural festivals, such as the Water Dragon Holy Mother praying for rain and favorable winds, and the Spring Ceremony to welcome the new year and dispel the misfortunes of the past year. Many festivals are considered famous Vung Tau festivals, such as the tribute ceremony to Virtuous Saint Tran on the 20th of August every lunar year. Most importantly, the Ancestor Worship Festival is held from the 8th to the 10th day of the lunar year, featuring elaborate rituals and offerings.
During the three-day Ancestor Worship Festival held annually, many visitors and tourists flock to Phuoc Le Pagoda to participate. Everyone hopes to receive blessings, watch traditional folk performances, and listen to stories about the ancient ancestors that have been passed down through generations.
For generations, Phuoc Le Village Temple has been regarded as a shared cultural and spiritual hub for the community, where the people of Vung Tau express reverence and uphold the tradition of honoring their roots. When in Vung Tau, make sure to visit this intriguing tourist destination.
