Together with Con Temple, Qua Temple, and Chieu Trung Temple, Bach Ma Temple has become an important religious landmark in this region.
Bach Ma Temple was constructed in honor of General Phan Da, a brilliant young man who played a vital role in King Le Lo’s glorious victory over the Ming intruders in the 15th century. Legend has it that Phan Da hailed from Chi Linh hamlet in Vo Liet commune. Even at a young age, his talents shone brightly. In 1424, when the renowned Lam Son army, under the leadership of Le Loi, arrived in Nghe An to establish their general headquarters, Phan Da wasted no time in joining their ranks. His intelligence quickly caught the attention of the army’s leaders, and he was placed in an influential position.
Throughout the fierce battles, Phan Da was always accompanied by his faithful white horse, aptly named “Thien Ly Ma” or the Thousand-Mile Horse. This loyal companion provided unwavering support, helping Phan Da secure countless victories. As a result, Phan Da’s fame spread far and wide, and people began revering him as the White-Horse God. Even after his passing, it was believed that his spirit continued to bless and protect the country. To honor this brave general and his horse, the Bach Ma Temple was erected.
Presently, Bach Ma Temple stands as a complex of five palaces, each adorned with three-door gates. These palaces are strategically arranged into lower, middle, and upper blocks, symbolizing harmony, solemnity, and reverence. The majority of the structures are meticulously crafted from wood, featuring exquisite carvings. Within the temple grounds, visitors can discover a treasure trove of precious and rare exhibits, including depictions of fish, dragons, and phoenixes. If you’re fortunate enough to visit on the 9th or 10th day of February (according to the lunar calendar), you may even witness the captivating rituals and ceremonial offerings held at the temple.
Useful Information
- Location: Vo Liet, Thanh Chuong, Nghe An
- Best for: All visitors
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: Day time visit is recommended
- Distance to city center: 38.4km (23.9 mi)
For more information about exploring other captivating destinations, check out the Travel Guide.
Whether you seek a spiritual journey or simply a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this region, the Holy Bach Ma Temple is an unmissable experience. We invite you to immerse yourself in the allure of this sacred site and witness its enduring legacy firsthand.