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The Tam Quan Gate has long been a symbol of Rạch Giá city, and indeed, of the entire Kiên Giang province. It has appeared frequently in the media to the extent that many people believe it to be a famous tourist destination. But in reality, it's just a gate with significant meaning. Let's discover the architecture and historical significance of Rạch Giá's Tam Quan Gate with VNTRIP.VN!
The Beauty and Historical Significance of Rạch Giá's Tam Quan Gate
If you've ever visited Rạch Giá city, you must have passed through the Tam Quan Gate located across Nguyen Trung Truc Street at the intersection of Nguyen Trung Truc and Lac Hong, the main thoroughfare of the city.
This Tam Quan Gate was constructed in 1955 during the French colonial period. Its initial purpose was to embellish Rạch Giá and serve as the city's entrance gate. At that time, Rạch Giá was a province, and the current central market area of Rạch Giá was the brain center. When first built, the Tam Quan Gate served as the village gate when entering Rạch Giá from the districts.
Regarding the history of Rạch Giá's Tam Quan Gate, it was built in the traditional Vietnamese style, consisting of three arched gateways. The Tam Quan Gate symbolizes the 'three sights' of Buddhism: 'existence', 'nonexistence', and 'middle existence', reflecting both the temporary and permanent aspects of life.
The Tam Quan Gate has three paths, with the central door being larger than the ones on the sides. Previously, Rạch Giá's Tam Quan Gate had a design deeply rooted in tradition, with couplets on both sides and the gate's forehead bearing the name 'Châu Thành Rạch Giá' without diacritics.
Unlike other Tam Quan Gates, this one features three softly arched openings. Each arch has two layers of roofs, adorned with symbols carrying unique meanings.
From a mere gateway, the Tam Quan Gate has evolved into a landmark located in the heart of the city. Nowadays, it has been repainted several times and equipped with a lighting system for nighttime illumination. The couplets on both sides and the inscription 'Châu Thành Rạch Giá' have also been removed. Nevertheless, it remains a symbol and a source of pride for the people of Rạch Giá.
Apart from its historical significance, the Tam Quan Gate of Rạch Giá holds great spiritual meaning.
For the locals, this gate is as familiar as an old friend. It stands there, silently witnessing the growth and development of a dynamic coastal city. The sight of the Tam Quan Gate in the distance signals 'Welcome home!' every time one returns from afar.
Moreover, the gate serves as a landmark for guiding travelers. 'Have you reached the Tam Quan Gate? Wait there, I'll come to pick you up!' or 'See the pink gate? Go straight through the main gate and over the bridge, my house is on the left!'...
Over time, the Tam Quan Gate of Rạch Giá has subtly woven itself into the lives of the people of Kiên Giang. It's like the unofficial emblem of this coastal city. Whether far from home or residing here, everyone takes pride in it.
A visit to Rạch Giá isn't complete without stopping by the Tam Quan Gate and snapping a check-in photo. That's when your Kiên Giang trip truly feels whole!
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