The Cau Pagoda has been undergoing renovation since December last year, with an estimated cost exceeding VND20 billion (US$814,332) and a scheduled completion date by the end of 2023.
While parts of the pagoda are concealed for restoration and preservation purposes, an access point for tours has been established to allow visitors to catch a glimpse of this famous pagoda.
To comprehensively evaluate the restoration work, Hoi An authorities recently invited an expert group to observe every aspect of the historic structure after removing its frame and roof. This marks the first time the entire pagoda, in its original form, structure, and spatial layout, has been fully unveiled.
Cau Pagoda was originally built in the 17th century by Japanese tradesmen on a bridge over a small creek. Made of painted wood and sculpted with intricate patterns, both the pagoda and the bridge bear some Japanese influence.
Although the pagoda is classified as such, it does not follow the traditional Vietnamese practice of venerating the Buddha; instead, it honors a guardian spirit that brings happiness and protection to the local community.
Throughout its history, the pagoda has undergone several renovations, but in recent years, it has experienced serious deterioration. The ongoing restoration work has achieved significant milestones, including the 3D digitization of the site, the erection of a protective structure, the installation of the yin-yang tile roof system and wooden framework, and the reinforcement of the foundation pillars.
Preserving the structural integrity has posed challenges due to the extent of deterioration, requiring manual intervention. Each element, such as tiles, mortar, and wooden pegs, has been delicately removed by hand and carefully repositioned within a designated wooden frame, with each piece assigned a serial number to prevent disturbances and fissures.
My Son heritage restoration completed
NDO – The restoration of a recently-discovered ancient road in the central area of My Son World Cultural Heritage Complex, Quang Nam province, has been completed.
Restoring the Soul of Khmer Pagodas
Artisan Ly Let is the son of elderly Ly Nghet who is well-known for building pagodas throughout the southern cities and provinces. Succeeding his father, Ly Let has also become a famous pagoda builder. He has built and restored over 400 pagodas which bear the typical architectural and cultural characteristics of the Khmer ethnic people in Vietnam.
Vietnamese, Indian experts complete upgrade of towers at My Son Sanctuary
NDO/VNA – After three years of renovations, Vietnamese and Indian experts have completed the upgrade of Towers K and H – rare buildings that have remained as part of the complex of temples at My Son Sanctuary in the central province of Quang Nam.
Japanese architect makes model of Vietnamese village gate
NDO/VNA – The Hanoi Museum received a model of the Mong Phu village gate crafted by Japanese architect Ejima Akiyoshi at a ceremony on March 16.
Cultural space in Phung Hung street expanded to diversify Hanoi tourism offers
The Hanoitimes – The remodeling of the area will contribute to creating another public space and enhancing connections with the heritage streets in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
