Co Le Pagoda (Chùa Cổ Lễ): Architectural Fusion and Buddhist History
Co Le Pagoda (Chùa Cổ Lễ), officially known as Than Quang Tu (Thần Quang Tự), is a must-visit destination in Nam Dinh Province. Situated in Co Le Town, Truc Ninh District, this temple complex captures visitor attention due to its highly unusual architectural style. Unlike most traditional Vietnamese pagodas, Co Le seamlessly blends classic local temple design with strong elements of European Gothic architecture, creating a truly distinctive appearance that resembles a medieval cathedral. Moreover, the pagoda holds deep historical significance, originally founded by the revered Zen Master Nguyen Minh Khong during the Ly Dynasty (12th century).
Architectural Marvel: A Fusion of East and West
The temple’s current structure primarily results from the reconstruction efforts led by the Most Venerable Pham Quang Tuyen in the early 20th century (starting around 1902 and again in 1920). He boldly designed the buildings to incorporate Western influences. Consequently, visitors immediately notice the arched domes and tall, vertical lines characteristic of European cathedrals, beautifully harmonized with the curved, tiled roofs and decorative dragons found in traditional Vietnamese temple architecture.
The complex boasts several striking features:
Cuu Pham Lien Hoa Tower (Tháp Cửu Phẩm Liên Hoa): A spectacular twelve-storey, eight-sided stupa stands prominently in front of the main temple. Built in 1926-1927, the tower’s base rests on the back of a large stone turtle, symbolizing longevity and wisdom in Vietnamese culture.
The Great Bell (Đại Hồng Chung): Co Le Pagoda famously houses a massive bronze bell situated on a hillock in the central lake. Cast in 1936, this bell weighs approximately 9,000 kilograms (9 tonnes), measures over 4 meters high, and was one of the largest in Vietnam at the time of its creation.
Cultural Significance and Annual Festival
Co Le Pagoda continues to actively preserve religious and folk traditions.
Historical Legacy: The site holds historical significance beyond its religious function. Notably, during the resistance war against the French in 1947, the abbot and 27 monks famously swapped their robes for battle uniforms (cởi áo cà sa khoác chiến bào) to join the fight for national independence, a patriotic legend still celebrated today.
The Co Le Pagoda Festival (Hội Chùa Cổ Lễ): The main annual festival takes place from the 13th to the 16th day of the ninth lunar month. This event attracts huge crowds and features rich folk games and cultural activities, including traditional wrestling, chess, and popular boat races, reflecting the rich cultural life of the Red River Delta farmers.
Essential Visitor Information and Tips
Travelers appreciate easy access to key logistics when planning their visit.
Address: TT. Cổ Lễ, Trực Ninh, Nam Định 420000, Vietnam. (The pagoda is located approximately 20 km from Nam Dinh City).
Entrance Fee: Like many pagodas in Vietnam, Co Le Pagoda does not charge an entrance fee to visit the complex.
Operating Hours: The pagoda is generally open to visitors from early morning until late afternoon, especially for pilgrims.
Getting There: Tourists usually reach Co Le by taking a local bus or hiring a private car from Nam Dinh City or Hanoi.
Recommendations: You must remember to dress respectfully to honor the temple’s sacred purpose. Furthermore, take the time to climb the central stupa (if access is permitted) for panoramic views, and definitely locate the massive 9-ton bell.
