Dong Thanh Communal House: A Treasured Relic of Hanoi’s Historic Old Quarter

Dong Thanh Communal House: A Historic Gem in Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Tucked away in the charming Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Dong Thanh Communal House stands as an enticing destination for those exploring the capital’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

Also known as Hang Vai Communal House, this site holds a special place at 7 Hang Vai Street. Here, one can find the worship of Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu (Zhenwudadi) from Taoism, an intriguing blend of spiritual traditions.

Dong Thanh Communal House has a fascinating history. Initially, it served as a communal house for two villages, Dong Thanh and Dong Thanh Thi. During the reign of Minh Mang, between 1820 and 1840, these two villages merged to form Dong Thanh village, uniting their heritage.

The intricate carvings on the 200-year-old well reflect a bygone era. Photo: Tinh Le/The Hanoi Times

This relic is a treasure trove of valuable artifacts, including a bronze statue of Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu, eight stone steles from the Nguyen dynasty chronicling construction, restoration, and donors, and nine ancient royal decrees. Additionally, numerous horizontal lacquered boards and parallel sentences enhance the site’s significance.

The statue of Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu is a striking depiction of a seated Taoist hermit. His left hand is poised in a magical gesture, while his right hand firmly holds a sword wrapped in a snake, resting on the back of a turtle. This statue bears a resemblance to the famous one at Quan Thanh Temple in Tay Ho district, showcasing a consistent spiritual theme.

Dong Thanh Communal House played a pivotal role during the National Resistance War in Hanoi. In the winter of 1946, for 60 days and nights, it served as an ambulance station for Military Region I, a testament to its practical significance in challenging times.

Over its more than 200-year existence, the relic has endured significant degradation, serving multiple functions beyond its initial purpose. It has been a place of worship, a municipal agency, and a dwelling for 12 households. Recognizing its cultural value, the Hanoi government took action in October 2011 to relocate the agency and residents, paving the way for restoration.

The restoration process meticulously preserved the original traditional architecture of the communal house. Starting in April 2013, the restoration work was completed by June 2014, ensuring the site’s longevity for future generations to appreciate.

The statue of Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu, a centerpiece of the communal house. Photo: Tinh Le/The Hanoi Times

In October 2014, the Hanoi People’s Committee designated Dong Thanh Communal House, spanning an area of 460 square meters, as a city-level historical architectural and artistic relic. Today, it stands not only as a place of worship but also as a captivating tourist destination, attracting visitors eager to immerse themselves in its rich history.

According to Le Minh Duc, Chairman of Hang Bo Ward People’s Committee, the potential for Dong Thanh Communal House as a tourist attraction is immense. By promoting this site, domestic and foreign tourists can delve into unique, culturally rich experiences, creating lasting memories.

“Preserving Dong Thanh Communal House goes beyond architecture and rituals,” Duc emphasized. “It’s about integrating it into our economic development strategy. By showcasing its historical and cultural value, we can attract both domestic and international tourists, thereby generating a stable source of income for the local community.”

An artistic performance at the Dong Thanh Communal House Festival captures the essence of local culture. Photo: Tinh Le/The Hanoi Times

Nguyen Duc Tien, director of Dong Thanh Communal House, underscored the importance of community involvement. “Through various events, we aim to engage the community and promote solidarity. By sharing our unique culture with locals and tourists alike, we can educate people, especially the youth, about heritage preservation and its significance,” he added.

Located in Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Dong Thanh Communal House is more than just a religious site. It embodies the culture of Hanoi and serves as a testament to the nation’s defense and development. This site bridges the past and the present, preserving the essence of Vietnam’s rich historical narrative.

You may also like

“Hanoi, a City Etched in Heart and Soul”: A love letter to Hanoi, as seen through the eyes and lenses of its elderly photographers.

Hanoi, a city of captivating moments, is beautifully portrayed through the lens of these photographers. Their profound love for the city is evident in every image, capturing the very essence of Hanoi’s unique charm.

The Eternal City: A Photographer’s Journey Through Hanoi’s Past and Present

The exhibition offers a unique insight into the evolving landscape of Hanoi’s streets, as seen through the eyes of its artists. With a focus on realistic depictions, it provides a window into the dynamic changes that shape this vibrant city.

Hanoi’s Captivating Autumn: An Artist’s Impression

The enchanting, rustic beauty of Hanoi’s old quarter in autumn is immortalized in a captivating painting by the talented deaf artist, Tran Nam Long.

The Captivating Cosmos: A Floral Spectacle Under Long Bien Bridge

The Red River tidal flats underwent a miraculous transformation after the devastating typhoon Yagi ravaged Hanoi. Nature’s resilience shone as the once barren landscape burst into life, adorning itself with a vibrant canvas of bright yellow flowers, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

The Enchanting World of Vietnamese Children’s Literature: A Treasure Trove of Stories Honoured by the International Youth Library.

“Ba tớ là runner”, a captivating Vietnamese book, has earned a prestigious spot in the International Youth Library’s The White Ravens 2024 catalogue. This annual list showcases the world’s most intriguing and exceptional books, and “Ba tớ là runner” has proudly secured its place among them.

The post Dong Thanh Communal House: A Treasured Relic of Hanoi’s Historic Old Quarter appeared first on https://vietexplorer.com.