1. General Introduction to the Nam Ngạn Historical Relic Complex
1.1. Geographical Location of the Nam Ngạn Historical Relic Complex
The Nam Ngạn Historical Relic Complex is located along the gentle Ma River, about 2 km northwest of the Thanh Hoa city center. Thanks to its convenient location, visitors can easily travel by car, motorbike, or taxi to visit. Along the journey, on both sides are scenes of peaceful countryside, poetic river scenery, and rows of bamboo rustling in the wind, bringing a sense of peace and closeness. Not only is it a convenient destination, but it is also associated with a rich history, evoking the heroic atmosphere of the heroic land of Thanh Hoa during the years of struggle for national independence.
1.2. Unique Features and Historical Role of the Nam Ngạn Historical Relic Complex
The Nam Ngạn Historical Relic Complex holds special value, serving as a witness to the fierce war years and a typical cultural space of the Thanh Hoa land. It was once an important strategic location in the resistance against the US, a transit point, supply base, and troop shelter for the armed forces, contributing to the protection of Ham Rong Bridge and the former Thanh Hoa city.
Not only associated with the history of resistance, the relic area also preserves the ancient beauty of the riverside countryside, with communal houses, pagodas, temples, and small alleys bearing strong traditional imprints. It is the blend of historical value and spiritual space that creates the unique charm of the Nam Ngạn Historical Relic Complex – where the past, present, and community cultural life blend together, clearly demonstrating the identity and resilient spirit of the people of Thanh Hoa.
2. Journey Through the Nam Ngạn Historical Relic Complex
The journey to the Nam Ngạn Historical Relic Complex is a return to the heroic memory of Thanh Hoa by the Ma River. Each trace here tells a story of the indomitable spirit and patriotism of the people during the resistance war against the US for national salvation. Amidst the peaceful ancient village space, visitors will feel the harmony between the past and the present through each structure, communal house roof, and wellside of this heroic land.
2.1. Temple of Chu Van Luong
The Temple of Chu Van Luong is located within the Nam Ngạn Historical Relic Complex, and is one of the sacred worship structures associated with the famous general of the Tran Dynasty – who made great contributions to the resistance war against the Yuan-Mongol invaders. The temple was built hundreds of years ago, and despite undergoing many renovations, it still retains its ancient and solemn features.
Currently, the temple preserves many unique and distinctive carved panels in the artistic style of the Nguyen Dynasty (19th century), along with numerous worship artifacts from the Le and Nguyen dynasties that hold historical and cultural value, such as: Royal decrees, ancestral altars, tablets, stone steles… All of these contribute to affirming the special historical and cultural value of the temple, and also demonstrate the deep respect of the people of Nam Ngạn for the talented and loyal general.
Temple of General Chu Van Luong. (Source: Collected)
The festival at the Temple of Chu Van Luong is held annually on his birthday, the 18th day of the 2nd lunar month, and his death anniversary, the 12th day of the 9th lunar month. During these days, local people and visitors from all directions gather to offer incense and commemorate the merits of the general, praying for favorable weather, peace, and prosperity for the nation. The festival is also highlighted by many special folk games and performances such as dragon dances, drum festivals, tug-of-war, Chau Van singing... creating a vibrant atmosphere, both sacred and rich in the cultural identity of Thanh Hoa.
Currently, the Temple of Chu Van Luong is open for visitors daily, especially crowded during the New Year and traditional festivals. This is an occasion for local people and visitors from all directions to offer incense and commemorate the merits of the general, praying for a year of peace, luck, and prosperity.
2.2. Mat Da Pagoda
Mat Da Pagoda is one of the typical structures located within the Nam Ngan historical relic complex, possessing special historical, architectural, and Buddhist cultural values of Thanh Hoa. The pagoda was built during the Tran Dynasty, initially located outside the dyke of the Ma River in Hoa Binh hamlet. In the 4th year of Bao Thai (1723), during the reign of King Le Du Tong, the pagoda was moved to its current location – the central area of Nam Ngan village, with a landform shaped like the character "Vương" (King) facing Southeast.
Over many centuries, Mat Da Pagoda has been renovated many times, especially during the Nguyen Dynasty (19th century), but it still retains its ancient charm with a system of exquisite wood carvings, patterns, and reliefs bearing the traditional artistic style. Inside the pagoda, many precious artifacts are still preserved, such as the stele "Mat Da Thien Tu Bi Ky" erected in 1723, the stele "Trung Tu Chua Nam Ngan" in 1927, along with many ancient altars and Buddha statues of high historical and artistic value.
Relic of Mat Da Nam Ngan Pagoda. (Source: Collected)
During the resistance war against America, the pagoda became an important Command Post, a place for gathering food, ammunition, medicine, as well as a place for treating the wounded and welcoming cadres, artists, and writers from home and abroad. With these outstanding values, Mat Da Pagoda was recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Relic by the Ministry of Culture and Information according to Decision No. 1821/VH-QĐ dated November 6, 1989, becoming a sacred site and a source of pride for the people of Nam Ngan.
2.3. Nam Ngan Victory Monument
Standing out in the Nam Ngan historical relic complex, the Nam Ngan Victory Monument is a work of profound historical significance, recording the heroic achievements of the army and people of Thanh Hoa during the years of the resistance war against America for national salvation. The work was built right on the bank of the Ma River, a place associated with fierce battles to protect Ham Rong Bridge, a vital transportation artery of the North.
The monument is designed with a solid form, depicting the image of soldiers and the people of Nam Ngan standing proudly amidst bombs and bullets, symbolizing the spirit "determined to fight to the death for the nation to live." The relief panels vividly recreate scenes of the army and people coordinating in combat, shooting down enemy aircraft, protecting the vital North-South transportation route amidst rain of bombs and fire.
Today, the Nam Ngan Victory Monument is not only a historical testament but also a space for gratitude and education of revolutionary traditions. On each anniversary, students, veterans, and visitors from all directions come here to offer flowers in remembrance, expressing deep gratitude to those who sacrificed for the independence and freedom of the nation.
3. Experience and notes when visiting the Nam Ngan historical relic complex
3.1. Attire, etiquette, and things to avoid
When visiting the Nam Ngan historical relic complex, visitors should choose polite, neat attire suitable for the spiritual space of temples, pagodas, and memorial sites. For those offering incense or attending festivals, they should wear short-sleeved shirts, long pants, and comfortable shoes for easy movement to show respect. Within the relic site, maintain a solemn attitude, speak softly, do not litter, do not touch exhibits or religious items.
The people of Nam Ngan highly value traditional beliefs, therefore visitors need to pay attention to maintaining proper behavior, especially when attending ceremonies or taking photos in the worship areas. Preparing offerings such as fresh flowers, incense, and fruit is also a way to show sincerity when visiting the relics in the area.
3.2. Suggested itinerary for visiting Ghep ferry terminal combined with tourism
After exploring the Nam Ngan historical relic complex, visitors can continue their journey to Truc Lam Ham Rong Zen Monastery, a famous Zen monastery located on the mountainside, offering a panoramic view of the winding Ma River and the historic Ham Rong Bridge. In the tranquil space, where clouds and mountains blend with the echoing temple bells, you will feel the peace and depth of the sacred land of Thanh.
Combine sightseeing and worship at Truc Lam Ham Rong Zen Monastery. (Source: Phatgiao.org)
Finally, visitors can visit Sam Son Beach Square, where the sea air is full of life with the gentle lapping of waves and the sunset dyeing the water golden. Here, visitors can stroll along the beach, immerse themselves in the vibrant life of the coastal city, watch outdoor art performances, or enjoy the salty breeze carrying the taste of the ocean. Don't forget to savor fresh seafood prepared on the spot. An evening at the beach square will surely be a perfect ending to your emotional exploration journey.
The Nam Ngan Historical Site Complex is not only a place that preserves the golden imprints in Thanh Hoa's history but also a symbol of the steadfast and indomitable spirit of the people of Thanh land through generations. Each landmark here tells a story of patriotism, sacrifice, and unwavering faith in the homeland. Today, when visiting the Nam Ngan Historical Site Complex, visitors can not only relive the heroic atmosphere of the past but also admire the peaceful beauty of the ancient village by the Ma River. Come once to this heritage land to listen to the echoes of history, feel the harmonious life between people and nature, where the past and present are still blending in every breath of heroic Thanh land.
