Vinh Trang Pagoda is located in My Phong Commune, which is three kilometers from the center of My Tho City. It was built in 1849 by a Buddhist monk named Hue Dang using funds collected from practitioners. In 1907, Tra Chanh Hau Superior Buddhist monk repaired the centre of pagoda. The structure of pagoda now is the result of restoring completely of Minh Dang Superior Buddhist monk in 1930.
I/ VINH TRANG PAGODA INFORMATION
Location: Vinh Trang Pagoda is located in a large garden in My Phong Commune, Mytho City, Tien Giang Province.
Characteristics: The architecture of the pagoda is a harmonious combination of Asian and European types of architecture, creating the splendid, but simple features of this Buddhist pagoda.
Differing from the other traditional pagodas, Vinh Trang Pagoda hasn’t the three-door temple gate. It has two entrances built basing on ancient temple style that decorated by using a lot of colourful glazed terra-cotta, china glued on the surface to under the form of the Dragon, the Unicorn, the Tortoise, the Phoenix, the Fish, the Ancient root and the classic references of Buddhism….It was built basing on the word ‘Quoc’ (meaning the nation) of Chinese character, including four compartments: forecourt, central chamber, the compartment hear the central chamber….. The facade of the pagoda contains both Asian and European architecture with the delicate post, curved arch decorated by colourful designs. There are five domes jutted out from the top of the pagoda’s roof to symbolize five basic elements (metal – wood, water – fire – earth according to Eastern philosophy). At the central of chamber, there are sixty precious statues made from wood, copper, terra-cotta, which are red lacquer trimmed with gold. The most valuable collection is the 18 arhants made from jackfruit tree wood in 1909. Additionally, the pagoda has a bell that was cast in 1854.The pagoda is surrounded by gardens of ornamental trees, ancient trees and bonsai, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The wonderful combination between the nature and pagoda’s architecture makes it more ancient, decent and dignified.
:blanscapes:
