Overview:

is a historic Buddhist temple located in the center of Hanoi, in the small lakeside park of Ba Da (One Pillar pagoda). The pagoda was built in 1049 during the reign of Emperor Lý Thái Tổ who said he had dreamt of being divinely incubated by a lotus flower in the middle of a square sea. The pagoda is a historic symbol of the city of Hanoi and remains an important cultural and architectural landmark. The pagoda is composed of a single, circular stone pillar, which supports a curved roof topped with a single bud-shaped tower. The structure is surrounded by intricate carvings and lacquer paintings. It has also been listed as a National Historic Monument in Vietnam. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Vietnam
Prominent Features:

1. Traditionally Hexagonal Shape: The One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi, Vietnam is traditionally constructed in a hexagonal shape, making it stand out from other temple structures in the city. 2. Perched atop Water: This pagoda is perched atop a pond, making it a stunning sight for visitors. 3. Single Pillar Structure: This pagoda is unique in that it is held up by a single pillar, which gives the structure an elegant look and adds to its appeal. 4. Carved Features: The One Pillar Pagoda features intricate and delicate carvings on its wood beams, pillars, and roof. 5. Intricate Roof: The roof of the pagoda is also a feature worth noting, as it features intricate patterns and symbols. This national monument of Vietnam portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The One Pillar Pagoda, also known as Chùa Một Cột, is an iconic Buddhist temple located in Hanoi, Vietnam. It is one of Vietnam’s most recognizable sites and is closely associated with the country’s cultural identity. The pagoda was built in 1049 by Emperor Lý Thái Tổ (reigned 1010-1028) and is said to have been modeled after a lotus flower. The One Pillar Pagoda is believed to have been constructed to fulfill a prophecy that Emperor Lý Thái Tổ would have an heir. Legend has it that the Emperor was childless and consulted a monk, who then advised him to build the pagoda and that then he would have an offspring. Soon, the Emperor’s wife became pregnant and gave birth to a son, who would later become Emperor Lý Nhật Tôn. The pagoda was nearly destroyed during the Chinese domination of Vietnam (10th-15th century), but was completely destroyed once more during the French Indochina War (1945-1954). After the war, it was rebuilt with a new design and material, incorporating modern materials and designs. In 1960, the One Pillar Pagoda was recognized as a National Historical Site, and today it is seen as a symbol of Hanoi. The pagoda is still actively used as a place of worship for Buddhist rites and ceremonies. You must visit one of these historical places in Vietnam on your Vietnam tour

Interesting facts:

1. The One Pillar Pagoda is located in Hanoi, Vietnam. Its official name is Độc Cửu Hội An. 2. It was built in 1049 by Emperor Ly Thai Tong who wanted to built a place to give thanks to Buddha for granting him a son. 3. The structure is made of a single, round pillar placed on a square-shaped lake representing the lotus flower. 4. There is only one entrance to the pagoda, so its meaning is that once you walk through it you enter a new spiritual world. 5. The One Pillar Pagoda has a height of 10.5 meters (34.5 feet) and it is made of wood. 6. During the 1954-1955 period, the pagoda was damaged by French bombing. 7. The one pillar pagoda is designated as a national historical and cultural site by the Vietnamese government since 1962. 8. In 2010, the pagoda was closed for major renovation, which cost about US$8 million over two years. Visit one of the famous monuments of Vietnam with your friends and family.