A devastating fire broke out at Ve Pagoda in Bac Giang City during the early hours of February 10, destroying numerous centuries-old artifacts and cultural relics.

Massive blaze reduces historic relics to ashes

The fire erupted at approximately 1:00 a.m. at Ve Pagoda, located in Tho Xuong Ward, Bac Giang City, Bac Giang Province.

Upon receiving the emergency alert, the Bac Giang Provincial Fire and Rescue Department dispatched four fire trucks and 30 firefighters to the scene, coordinating with the Bac Giang City Police to extinguish the fire and maintain security.

Speaking to VietNamNet, Nguyen Huu Dinh, Vice Chairman of the Bac Giang City People's Committee, confirmed that he had personally arrived at the site to oversee the firefighting efforts.

"The flames spread rapidly, consuming many valuable artifacts inside the pagoda," Dinh stated.

Due to the intensity of the fire, many historical relics dating back hundreds of years were completely destroyed before firefighters could contain the blaze.

Fire brought under control, investigation underway

By 1:35 a.m., the fire was largely under control. Authorities are now assessing the extent of the damage, including the loss of historic artifacts housed within the pagoda.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Ve Pagoda is renowned for its collection of Buddhist statues and valuable religious artifacts. Among its most prized possessions was a large bronze bell, cast during the Le Canh Hung era, measuring 1.5 meters in height with a diameter of 66 cm, known for its exceptional sound quality.

The pagoda, with its original ancient architecture, was officially designated as a National Historic and Cultural Site by the Ministry of Culture and Information on February 12, 1994.

Bao Khanh