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Phổ Minh Pagoda (also known as Tháp Pagoda) is located in Tức Mặc village, Nam Định city. In 2012, this historic temple was designated as a Special National Heritage Site by the Prime Minister.
Phổ Minh Temple Tower
Phổ Minh Pagoda is situated in the homeland of the Trần dynasty kings. It is also referred to as Phổ Minh Temple Tower because it houses the sacred Phổ Minh Tower, symbolizing the Đông A spirit. Historical records indicate that the temple was built during the Lý dynasty and is home to the Phổ Minh Cauldron, one of the four great treasures of Đại Việt. The temple was expanded alongside the construction of Thiên Trường palaces during the Trần dynasty in 1262.
From 1533 to 1592, the pagoda underwent further renovations led by Princess Mạc Ngọc Lâm. She devoted herself to monastic life and initiated the restoration of the temple grounds. Since then, the pagoda has been renovated multiple times, yet Phổ Minh Pagoda retains its traditional “nội công, ngoại quốc” architectural style. Key structures include the Tam quan gate, Tiền đường, Thiêu hương, Thượng điện, Phổ Minh Tower, corridors, ancestral house, and Mẫu shrine.
Historical accounts state that King Trần Nhân Tong renovated the pagoda and resided there after becoming a monk. Following his father's death, King Trần Anh Tông commissioned the construction of a 14-story tower, standing 53 meters tall with a base of 10 meters on each side, to enshrine relics. During the Tây Sơn era, a local official destroyed the bronze hồ lô pinnacle of the tower. When reaching the 13th floor, a red silk-like object flew into the sky, halting further destruction. The tower, built on a small square courtyard, stands 19.51 meters tall and consists of a base and 13 stories.
Other Unique Features of the Pagoda
Phổ Minh Tower is not only historically significant but also embodies national pride and the Đông A spirit. Despite enduring numerous changes over time, the tower remains remarkably well-preserved. Its unique presence adds distinction not only to the pagoda but also to the entire province of Nam Định.
Inside Phổ Minh Pagoda, statues of Buddha and Bodhisattvas are enshrined in the main hall. Additionally, there is a set of Trúc Lâm Tam Tổ statues crafted from wood, lacquered, and gilded, which have remained intact for over 300 years. The rear hall houses statues of Trần Nhân Tông in nirvana, Zen Master Pháp Hoa, and Zen Master Huyền Quang. The Trúc Lâm Tam Tổ statues were officially recognized as national treasures on January 30, 2023.
The pagoda’s large bell bears the inscription “Phổ Minh Đỉnh Tự,” cast in the fourth year of Cảnh Thịnh (1796). Behind the main hall, separated by a narrow courtyard, is an 11-bay building arranged in the shape of the character “Nhất.” The center features a five-bay ancestral house, with a three-bay monks’ quarters on the left and a three-bay shrine on the right. The ancestral house contains a statue of Lady Mạc, who once practiced monasticism at the pagoda. The statue, carved from white stone, sits atop a lotus throne. Two corridors connect the front hall and the 11-bay building, forming the outer ring of the character “Quốc.”
The Value of the Pagoda
The pagoda holds immense architectural, cultural, and historical significance. As a result, Phổ Minh Pagoda is a popular spiritual and religious destination. During festivals, holidays, and special occasions, locals and tourists gather here to honor the legacy of their ancestors.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnSeptember 16, 2024
