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Cửa Ông Temple, situated in Cam Pha City, is one of the most renowned spiritual destinations in Quang Ninh province. The temple has been classified as a special national relic since 2017.
Quang Ninh's Cửa Ông Temple - One of Vietnam's Most Beautiful Temples
The History of Cửa Ông Temple
Cửa Ông Temple stands atop a hill nearly 100m high, overlooking Bai Tu Long Bay. It is a historical and cultural relic of the Tran Dynasty, dedicated to Hung Nhuong Vuong Tran Quoc Tang, who played a significant role in defending the Northeast region and repelling Mongol invaders in the 13th century.
The temple also serves as a place of worship for the Tran Dynasty's legendary generals, including Yết Kiêu, Dã Tượng, Tran Khanh Du, Phạm Ngũ Lão, and others.
The terrain around Cua Ong temple is a narrow valley stretching along Route 18, nestled between two high mountain ranges. Historically, the road passing through Cua Ong was the sole route to the northeastern border regions. Cua Ong serves as a crucial gateway connecting the densely forested eastern region with the wealthy mining areas and expansive western territories.
Throughout history, military expeditions from the northern regions, or various feudal dynasties mobilizing troops to the northeastern border, have traversed Cua Ong. Consequently, a military outpost was established here for defense. To the south of Cua Ong lies Bai Tu Long Bay, an abundant marine area providing strategic advantages in terms of seaports.
Given its strategic location and favorable terrain for port construction, this area has been a trading port since ancient times, connecting the Red River Delta with northeastern Vietnam and southeastern China. The old port of Cua Ong was referred to as Cua Suot.
The significance of Cua Ong temple extends beyond its immense historical value to encompass profound artistic and cultural significance. The temple complex is situated on low hills, interspersed amidst ancient trees, creating a serene and solemn ambiance.
Constructed using various materials including cast stone, Bat Trang pottery, lime mortar, fired clay floor tiles, and baked earth roofing tiles... Decorations feature mythical creatures such as dragons, unicorns, tortoises, and phoenixes. The interior is crafted from durable and elegant woods such as ironwood, ebony, rosewood, and teak, with architectural elements including rafters, bridges, corridors, and columns adorned with bas-reliefs, murals, couplets, and intricate motifs embellished with gold leaf and lacquer.
Visitors to the temple complex will explore three main areas: the Lower Temple, the Middle Temple, and the Upper Temple, each located at different positions. The Lower Temple is situated below the Mother Goddess shrine; the Upper Temple comprises the main temple dedicated to Tran Quoc Tang, along with shrines dedicated to Quan Chau and Quan Chanh...
Currently, the temple still preserves 34 statues, large and small, skillfully crafted by artisans. These statues, seated in majestic postures within the shrine, exhibit exquisite balance and hold significant artistic value.
The Cua Ong Temple Festival
The Cua Ong Temple Festival takes place twice a year, on the 3rd and 4th of February and the 3rd and 4th of August in the lunar calendar. The festival consists of two parts: the ritual and the festivities. The ritual includes the opening ceremony at the Upper Temple followed by the procession to invite Lord Ong to the temple, which occurs from 6 am to 6:30 am at the Upper Temple.
The highlight of the festival is the procession of Lord Ong's palanquin and the retinue of heavenly gods around the sanctuary. The festivities feature cultural performances and popular folk games of the region.
The activities during the Cua Ong Temple Festival aim to commemorate the significant historical events and contributions of the nation's founders and heroes. It reflects the virtue of 'Remembering the Source' and instills a sense of national pride in every individual.
Moreover, the festival serves as an opportunity to promote the exemplary values of the special national heritage site, Cua Ong Temple. Simultaneously, it plays a crucial role in contributing to the restoration efforts and attracting tourists to the city of Cam Pha and Quang Ninh province as a whole.
According to Mytour
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Referencing: Mytour Travel Handbook
Source: MytourOctober 24th, 2022
