Construction begins on the restoration and renovation of Van-Cua Rao Temple.

(Baonghean.vn)ButOn the morning of June 24th, Tuong Duong district held a groundbreaking ceremony for the restoration and renovation of Van Temple - Cua Rao.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by representatives from the Ethnic Affairs Committee, the Department of Culture and Sports of Nghe An province, leaders of Tuong Duong district, various organizations and individuals from businesses, and a large number of local residents.

Representatives from the Ethnic Affairs Committee, the Department of Culture and Sports, and leaders of Tuong Duong district performed the groundbreaking ceremony. Photo: Dinh Tuan.

The Van - Cua Rao Temple, located in Xa Luong commune, Tuong Duong district, is a place of worship for the famous general Doan Nhu Hai (1280-1335) and other generals and soldiers of the Tran dynasty who died in battle against the Ai Lao invaders, as well as the Three Holy Mothers and Saint Tran Hung Dao.

The temple was built in the 14th century and restored in the 19th century. Throughout its history, especially after two wars, the temple suffered serious deterioration. In 2005, the Van-Cua Rao Temple was restored to its original architecture. In early 2009, the Van-Cua Rao Temple was officially recognized and classified as a provincial-level historical and cultural relic.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, the organizing committee received over 2 billion VND from organizations, individuals, and businesses as donations for the restoration and renovation of the temple. Photo: Dinh Tuan

However, due to its age and the many ups and downs of history and harsh natural conditions it has endured, the temple is now dilapidated and unsafe for worshippers of the ethnic communities in Tuong Duong district and visitors from all over. Therefore, with the agreement of the Provincial People's Committee, the Department of Culture and Sports of Nghe An province, and the People's Committee of Tuong Duong district, a project has been established to invest in the restoration, renovation, and expansion of the historical site, creating a cultural and spiritual highlight. This project is funded entirely through social mobilization.

Overall perspective of Van Temple - Cua Rao. Photo: Dinh Tuan

According to the restoration and renovation plan, while ensuring the preservation of its original architectural features, the temple will be expanded into five areas, including: the worship hall; the traditional house area showcasing the distinctive characteristics of the six ethnic groups; the food area; the area with the statue of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva; and the festival area.

The first phase will involve restoring and renovating the main hall and the rear hall, constructed of ironwood, with an ancient architectural style featuring intricate carvings, covering a construction area of ​​101 m2; renovating the access road to the temple, paving the temple courtyard with natural stone, and planting trees to create a beautiful landscape. Phase 1 is expected to be completed within 3 months of the commencement date.

Dinh Tuan