Dong Thanh Communal House: A Historic Gem in Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Tucked away in the charming Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Dong Thanh Communal House stands as an enticing destination for those exploring the capital’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
Also known as Hang Vai Communal House, this site holds a special place at 7 Hang Vai Street. Here, one can find the worship of Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu (Zhenwudadi) from Taoism, an intriguing blend of spiritual traditions.
Dong Thanh Communal House has a fascinating history. Initially, it served as a communal house for two villages, Dong Thanh and Dong Thanh Thi. During the reign of Minh Mang, between 1820 and 1840, these two villages merged to form Dong Thanh village, uniting their heritage.
| The intricate carvings on the 200-year-old well reflect a bygone era. Photo: Tinh Le/The Hanoi Times |
This relic is a treasure trove of valuable artifacts, including a bronze statue of Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu, eight stone steles from the Nguyen dynasty chronicling construction, restoration, and donors, and nine ancient royal decrees. Additionally, numerous horizontal lacquered boards and parallel sentences enhance the site’s significance.
The statue of Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu is a striking depiction of a seated Taoist hermit. His left hand is poised in a magical gesture, while his right hand firmly holds a sword wrapped in a snake, resting on the back of a turtle. This statue bears a resemblance to the famous one at Quan Thanh Temple in Tay Ho district, showcasing a consistent spiritual theme.
Dong Thanh Communal House played a pivotal role during the National Resistance War in Hanoi. In the winter of 1946, for 60 days and nights, it served as an ambulance station for Military Region I, a testament to its practical significance in challenging times.
Over its more than 200-year existence, the relic has endured significant degradation, serving multiple functions beyond its initial purpose. It has been a place of worship, a municipal agency, and a dwelling for 12 households. Recognizing its cultural value, the Hanoi government took action in October 2011 to relocate the agency and residents, paving the way for restoration.
The restoration process meticulously preserved the original traditional architecture of the communal house. Starting in April 2013, the restoration work was completed by June 2014, ensuring the site’s longevity for future generations to appreciate.
| The statue of Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu, a centerpiece of the communal house. Photo: Tinh Le/The Hanoi Times |
In October 2014, the Hanoi People’s Committee designated Dong Thanh Communal House, spanning an area of 460 square meters, as a city-level historical architectural and artistic relic. Today, it stands not only as a place of worship but also as a captivating tourist destination, attracting visitors eager to immerse themselves in its rich history.
According to Le Minh Duc, Chairman of Hang Bo Ward People’s Committee, the potential for Dong Thanh Communal House as a tourist attraction is immense. By promoting this site, domestic and foreign tourists can delve into unique, culturally rich experiences, creating lasting memories.
“Preserving Dong Thanh Communal House goes beyond architecture and rituals,” Duc emphasized. “It’s about integrating it into our economic development strategy. By showcasing its historical and cultural value, we can attract both domestic and international tourists, thereby generating a stable source of income for the local community.”
| An artistic performance at the Dong Thanh Communal House Festival captures the essence of local culture. Photo: Tinh Le/The Hanoi Times |
Nguyen Duc Tien, director of Dong Thanh Communal House, underscored the importance of community involvement. “Through various events, we aim to engage the community and promote solidarity. By sharing our unique culture with locals and tourists alike, we can educate people, especially the youth, about heritage preservation and its significance,” he added.
Located in Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Dong Thanh Communal House is more than just a religious site. It embodies the culture of Hanoi and serves as a testament to the nation’s defense and development. This site bridges the past and the present, preserving the essence of Vietnam’s rich historical narrative.
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