1. Overview of Mai An Tiêm Temple
Mai An Tiêm Temple is located in Nga An commune, Thanh Hóa province, a place that marks the pioneering efforts and commemorates the legend of Mai An Tiêm, who is honored as the ancestor of Vietnam's watermelon cultivation. According to legend, Mai An Tiêm was the adopted son of King Hung, known for his honesty, diligence, and self-reliance. However, due to false accusations, he and his family were exiled to a remote deserted island. In difficult circumstances, he worked diligently, cultivated crops, and accidentally discovered watermelon seeds – a fruit that brought sustenance and hope amidst the wilderness. Not long after, the truth was revealed, and the king summoned him back to the mainland.
Mai An Tiêm Temple is the place of worship for the ancestor of watermelon cultivation in Vietnam. (Source: Collected)
Upon returning, Mai An Tiêm and his family settled in Nga An, beginning the task of reclaiming land, transforming the barren area into a prosperous and fertile place. With diligence and unwavering determination, he contributed to the development of this land, leaving a deep imprint on Vietnamese history and folklore. To commemorate his merits and his example of continuous labor, the local people built the Mai An Tiêm Temple . From then on, the temple became a sacred cultural symbol, the pride of the Thanh land, and a vivid testament to the nation's tradition of 'drinking water, remembering its source'.
2. Discover the ancient architecture and sacred space of Mai An Tiêm Temple
Mai An Tiêm Temple is a structure deeply imbued with traditional cultural imprints, both ancient and solemn. The temple stands out with its gracefully curved tiled roofs, intricate carvings, and harmonious layout, reflecting the skillful hands and respectful hearts of the people towards the legendary historical figure. Each architectural detail carries its own meaning, recalling Mai An Tiêm's pioneering efforts and persistent spirit of labor.
The entire temple complex consists of 9 bays, including 5 Tiền Bái bays and 4 Hậu Cung bays. Entering from the outside, visitors will encounter the Tam Quan gate, built in the traditional Dinh character style. Inside is a spacious and airy courtyard, where the solemn bronze statue of worship is placed in the center of the Tiền Bái. Additionally, the temple grounds include auxiliary structures such as a guesthouse, storage rooms, and a kitchen, serving for daily activities and ceremony organization.
The Mai An Tiêm Temple is the place of worship for the ancestor of watermelon cultivation in Vietnam. (Source: Collected)
3. Admire the sacred treasures preserving the spirit of Mai An Tiêm
Not only outstanding for its ancient architecture, the Mai An Tiêm Temple is also a place that preserves many treasures of great spiritual and historical value. Ancient artifacts such as wooden statues, horizontal lacquered boards, parallel sentences, or old royal decrees are all carefully preserved, becoming vivid evidence of the tradition of honoring meritorious people and preserving the cultural memory of the nation. Each item carries its own meaning, showing the deep gratitude of the people towards Mai An Tiêm.
Notably, besides the statue of Mai An Tiêm, the temple also worships two loyal and righteous generals, Le Long Dinh and Le Uyen. The presence of these statues not only enriches the spiritual value of the relic but also demonstrates the tradition of 'valuing righteousness and humanity' of the Thanh land. Coming here, visitors can not only admire rare ancient treasures but also have the opportunity to feel the sacred, solemn atmosphere, where past and present blend in every wisp of incense smoke.
4. Participate in the Mai An Tiêm Festival
The Mai An Tiêm Festival is held annually from the 12th to the 14th of the 3rd lunar month at the Mai An Tiêm Temple, attracting a large number of local people and visitors from all over. In a solemn and warm atmosphere, people offer incense praying for health, peace, luck, and abundant harvests, expressing deep gratitude towards the ancestor of watermelon cultivation.
A festive, bustling atmosphere at the Mai An Tiêm festival. (Source: Cong Ly Newspaper)
Not only carrying spiritual significance, the Mai An Tiêm festival is also an occasion for people to interact, connect, and immerse themselves in the unique traditional festival atmosphere. Many folk cultural activities are organized, such as palanquin processions, cake wrapping contests, folk games, and ethnic art performances, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. Coming to the festival, visitors can not only learn about historical and spiritual values but also feel the spirit of solidarity, hospitality, and pride of the people of Thanh Hoa.
5. Notes when visiting the Mai An Tiêm temple
To make the visit to the Mai An Tiêm temple complete and meaningful, visitors should remember the following notes:
Dress respectfully, respecting the sacred space: When visiting the Mai An Tiêm temple, visitors should choose neat and polite attire. Avoid wearing overly short tops, shorts, or offensive clothing.
Maintain a solemn attitude when worshipping and participating in the festival: Please respect the worship rituals and festival activities at the temple. During the ceremony, visitors should remain silent, avoid speaking loudly, refrain from using phones, and not push their way through, to help maintain the solemn atmosphere of the place of worship.
Maintain cleanliness, protect the general landscape: When visiting, visitors should dispose of trash in designated areas and not litter. Maintaining cleanliness not only helps keep the surrounding area clean and beautiful but also demonstrates awareness and reverence for the cultural heritage site.
Combine visits with other famous tourist attractions in Thanh Hoa: After exploring the Mai An Tiêm temple, visitors can visit other famous places such as Pu Luong Nature Reserve, Ho Citadel, Lam Kinh historical site, or Huyen Tich Am Tien - a spiritual complex currently under large-scale construction, promising to become an attractive destination in the future.
Combine sightseeing and photography at Pu Luong Nature Reserve. (Source: Collected)
The journey to Mai An Tiêm Temple is not just a visit to a historical relic, but also a journey back to the roots, preserving the spirit of overcoming difficulties and the resilient will of ancient Vietnamese people. Amidst the peaceful space of the Nga An land, the temple offers visitors a sense of tranquility and a deep connection to national traditions. If you are looking for a destination that is both sacred and rich in cultural value, visit Mai An Tiêm Temple once to listen to legendary stories, worship at the sacred place, and feel the enduring beauty of the Thanh Hoa region.
