Located along the Lo River, Quan Tu Village in Vin Phuc Province, has long been known as a land of scholarly excellence, having produced 12 Confucian doctoral laureates.

This reputation earned it the title of "scholar village." Today, the village is home to two significant historical sites: the temple of educator Do Khac Chung and the 300-year-old Vinh Phuc Pagoda, also known as Am Pagoda.

A lotus rising from the fields

Am Pagoda is uniquely positioned on a high mound in the middle of a lowland field, locally known as Am Mound.

The villagers liken the pagoda to a lotus flower, with the entrance road leading to the village resembling its stem.

An ancient stone stele in the temple courtyard bears the inscription Hương chúc bảo đài, indicating that construction began in the Year of the Rat (1696) and was completed in the Year of the Tiger (1710).

Facing east toward the village gate, the pagoda's grand entrance (Tam Quan) features a brick-paved courtyard and a traditional three-section structure. The upper level houses a large bronze bell and an ancient bronze gong, both highly valuable historical artifacts.

The main temple complex follows a Tam (three-section) architectural style. The Bai Duong hall, the largest and most striking structure, consists of five compartments with a two-tiered roof, creating an airy and majestic appearance.

The temple’s framework is supported by 28 sturdy wooden columns, intricately arranged in traditional Vietnamese style to ensure structural stability. At the center, a lacquered wooden plaque inscribed with Vinh Phuc Tu (Vinh Phuc Pagoda) hangs, crafted during the reign of Emperor Bao Dai.

A sacred space of diverse beliefs

Beyond its striking architecture and tranquil surroundings, Am Pagoda is a rare example of religious and spiritual convergence. Various altars and statues reflect the coexistence of multiple faiths.

The temple houses 31 statues, crafted from wood and clay, representing Buddhist deities, celestial beings, and protective spirits. Each statue varies in size and design, yet all are intricately carved to depict their divine roles.

Despite centuries of renovation and expansion, Am Pagoda retains its solemn and majestic presence. It remains a cherished spiritual and cultural hub for the people of Quan Tu Village, who continue to safeguard its artifacts and preserve its historical landscape.

Duc Hoang