During the construction of Thang Long citadel (now Hanoi), the ancient monarchies built four temples in turn on four sides, including Bach Ma (White Horse) Temple in the east, Voi Phuc (Kneeling Elephant) in the west, Quan Thanh Temple in the north and Kim Lien Temple in the south. Each temple worships a god guarding that direction.
Throughout the past, more than 1,000 years, the relic sites in the four guards, including Kim Lien Temple, have always played a special position in the cultural and historical space of Thang Long – Hanoi.
Kim Lien Temple, which was said to be built later than others, is located in Kim Hoa village (now Kim Lien village, Phuong Lien ward, Dong Da district). The temple worships Cao Son Lord – a god protecting people against natural disasters and strong enemies.
Kim Lien Temple also preserves many valuable artefacts that contain historical data related to relics in particular and the history of feudal dynasties in general but also feature valuable scientific information on calligraphy, linguistics, and traditional Vietnamese fine arts.
Kim Lien Temple Festival takes place annually on the 16th day of the third lunar month, offering an opportunity for locals and visitors to pay respect to Cao Son god.
At the ceremony, the Chairman of the Hanoi municipal People’s Committee Chu Ngoc Anh presented the certificate recognising Kim Lien Temple as a special national relic site.
