1. Overview of Ca Temple in Nghe An
Nestled in Yen Thanh Commune (formerly Hoa Thanh Commune, Yen Thanh District) in Nghe An, Ca Temple sits on an expansive 3-hectare plot. Its front view opens to serene ponds and rice fields, while the back and sides are lined with residential areas. The temple grounds are shaded by tall, leafy trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Ca Temple honors Ly Nhat Quang along with other figures who contributed to protecting the country and its people. According to local legends, this temple was first built during the Ly Dynasty and later renovated and expanded in the post-Le period.
In the late 19th century, Ca Temple became a secret meeting place for resistance leaders Nguyen Xuan On and Le Doan Nha during the Can Vuong movement against French colonial forces. In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, the temple was designated a National Historical and Cultural Relic in 2012.
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2. Things to explore on your visit to Ca Temple
2.1. Triple-arch gate & ancient stele
The triple-arch gate of Ca Temple is built from brick, stone, and lime mortar, modest in size yet striking in beauty. Its pillars connect with protruding walls, creating a harmonious design. Delicate carvings of dragons, kylins, turtles, phoenixes, and Han-script couplets adorn the pillars, while two guardian lion statues crown the gate. In front of the gate stands an ancient stele. This stele preserves inscriptions that honor the village’s tradition of learning and its dedication to building cultural landmarks.
2.2. Main gate
Resembling the iconic Khue Van Pavilion of Hanoi’s Temple of Literature, the main gate of Ca Temple is built in the style of an eight-roof layered structure. Crafted from precious lim wood, this gate has one compartment and two floors, supported by four main columns and four secondary columns.
The roof is decorated with dragon motifs. The floor is paved with dark brown square bricks, and the open sides connect seamlessly to the courtyard. The upper floor is enclosed with wooden panels, featuring windows and a small altar for worship. The lower floor extends in all four directions, creating a spacious, welcoming area.
What truly captures visitors’ attention is the intricate wood carvings found on the beams and brackets of the gate. These carvings depict the “four sacred animals” and “four seasons” with soft, flowing details. The gate was traditionally where officials stopped before entering the temple.
2.3. Worshipping house
The worshipping house of Ca Temple is a remarkable example of traditional Vietnamese architecture, originally built in the late Le Dynasty and restored during the Nguyen Dynasty. Despite multiple renovations, it has retained its original charm.
This elegant structure serves as a sacred venue for rituals such as offering ceremonies and praying for blessings. Its solid wooden frame, brick-and-mortar walls, and sturdy red-painted doors reflect the durability and craftsmanship of ancient locals.
At the center of the worshipping house lies the main altar, where visitors can stop by to light incense. A beautifully gilded incense table with intricate carvings of dragons, phoenixes, flowers, and leaves stands as the focal point. On both sides of the table, two kneeling wooden servant statues, hands clasped in reverence, enhance the solemn atmosphere.
2.4. Upper hall
The upper hall of Ca Temple is considered the most sacred space within the complex, housing numerous relics of both historical and artistic significance. There are altars, incense tables, thrones, and statues honoring deities and national heroes. The upper hall also venerates the founding ancestors of major clans in the region. Other relics include royal decrees, calligraphic panels, parallel sentences, dragon palanquins, wooden cranes, candle stands, and incense burners.
2.5. Valuable artifacts
Beyond its remarkable architecture, Ca Temple is also renowned for its collection of precious historical documents and inscriptions. Among these treasures are four royal decrees, including one from the Vinh Khanh era which dates back nearly 300 years, one from the Canh Thinh era, and two from the Nguyen Dynasty.
The temple also features an impressive collection of parallel sentences, each beautifully composed to praise the land that has nurtured many talented individuals. They not only celebrate heroism but also reflect the deep-rooted tradition of valuing education, morality, and literature in Nghe An.
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3. Annual festival at Ca Temple, Nghe An
Every year from the 13th to the 16th day of the 1st lunar month, Ca Temple comes alive with a grand traditional festival where locals gather to honor the temple’s spiritual significance. There are sacred activities such as the Opening Ceremony, the Bathing Ritual, the Announcement Ceremony, the Procession, the Offering Ritual, and the Thanksgiving Ceremony, each performed with solemnity.
Alongside the rituals, the festival bursts into life with folk performances and traditional games that reflect the spirit of the community. Visitors can also enjoy wrestling, Chinese chess, cockfighting, and swinging, all set in a joyful atmosphere. Attending the Ca Temple festival is a memorable way to experience its rich heritage.
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4. How to get to Ca Temple, Nghe An?
The journey to Ca Temple in Nghe An often begins at the center of the former Vinh City. Follow National Road 1A north for about 40 kilometers, then turn left onto National Road 7B. This road will take you to Yen Thanh Commune, where you will make another left turn onto a small alley. Follow the alley to the end then turn right, and you will reach Ca Temple. This trip is best done by renting a motorbike.
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With its rich history, striking architecture, and sacred atmosphere, Ca Temple continues to be a symbol of cultural pride in Nghe An. A visit here offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local traditions that have shaped the identity of the region for generations.
After exploring the charm of Ca Temple, you can retreat back to the comfort of Vinpearl Cua Hoi Resort, Affiliated by Meliá. Nestled on the pristine Cua Hoi Beach, this resort offers elegant rooms, stunning ocean views, and world-class amenities. With its blend of modern convenience and natural beauty, it is a perfect place to relax, recharge, and enjoy the serene coast after a day of sightseeing in Nghe An.
