If you ever make the long journey to visit pagodas in the North, you might bypass the tomb and temple of Kinh Duong Vuong, grandfather of King Hung through no fault of your own.
And you probably don’t realize that you are missing out on a great chance to admire and learn more about the historical vestiges of the nation’s forefathers.
Despite its valuable cultural and historical features, not many people know that the site is a relic steeped in the history of the nation’s first king and Luy Lau ancient imperial city.
Located in A Lu Hamlet, Dai Dong Thanh Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province, the site is a place where younger generations can learn more about history as well as the origins of the country and discover the brave and heroic spirit of Kinh Duong Vuong, known as Loc Tuc, who was renowned for his intelligence, righteousness and generosity. He also established the first primitive state of Xich Quy in 2879 BC.
The eldest son of Kinh Duong Vuong and Than Long, Kinh Hung Vuong, became Vietnam’s first monarch and he set up the nation’s capital in Phong Chau, present-day Viet Tri City in Phu Tho Province.
Locals annually hold the King Duong Vuong festival on the 17th, 18th and 19th day in the third month of lunar calendar, featuring an incense purifying ceremony at the temple dedicated to Kinh Duong Vuong-Lac Long Quan-Au Co and a palanquin procession rite alongside other activities.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has recognized the long-standing tomb and temple of Kinh Duong Vuong, Lac Long Quan and Au Co as a national cultural and historic relic.
