Hidden amidst the bustling modern life of Vietnam, ancient houses still stand proudly as historical witnesses, carrying unique architectural beauty and profound cultural stories. These structures are not merely dwellings but also symbols of an era, preserving the national soul and reflecting the life and customs of ancient Vietnamese people.
Tay Giai Ancient House: An Emerald Gem Beside the Ho Citadel
Nestled in Tay Giai village, Vinh Tien commune, Vinh Loc district, Thanh Hoa province, just a stone’s throw from the Ho Citadel, the over 200-year-old house of the Pham family is a living testament to the beauty of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Built in 1810, the house is a priceless asset preserved and conserved by Mr. Pham Ngoc Tung, a 7th-generation descendant.
Admiring the ancient beauty of Tay Giai old house, one of the most beautiful ancient houses in Vietnam, featuring unique wooden architecture and intricate carvings.
This ancient house is not just an architectural work, but also a part of Vietnamese history and culture. It has witnessed many ups and downs of time and still retains its original beauty.
Unique and Exquisite Architecture
The house is built entirely of wood, measuring 9.8m wide, 21.5m long, and 5m high, consisting of 7 compartments (3 main and 4 auxiliary). The 3 central compartments are used by Mr. Tung’s family for ancestral worship and common living space. With 27 large and small columns and 3 main doors with 12 panels, the house exudes a majestic and imposing appearance.
Mr. Pham Ngoc Tung, a 7th-generation descendant, diligently preserves and protects the ancient house, an integral part of Vietnamese cultural heritage.
The highlight of the Tay Giai ancient house lies in the exquisite carvings on the beams, rafters, and braces. Ancient artisans skillfully incorporated decorative patterns imbued with Vietnamese culture, such as the four sacred animals (dragon, unicorn, turtle, phoenix) and the four noble plants (pine, bamboo, chrysanthemum, apricot blossom). These images are not only highly aesthetic but also express aspirations for prosperity, longevity, and good fortune.
Mr. Tung’s family’s dedication has contributed to preserving a valuable heritage, allowing future generations to admire and better understand the history and culture of the nation.
Historical Imprints and Cultural Values
The Tay Giai ancient house is not only a beautiful architectural work but also carries profound historical and cultural values. Built during the Nguyen Dynasty, the house was the residence of Mr. Bat, an eighth-rank mandarin. During the resistance wars against the French and Americans, the house also served as a place to store military supplies, organize meetings, and rest for soldiers.
The ancient house, built in 1810, showcasing Nguyen Dynasty architecture, was the residence of an eighth-rank mandarin.
With these special values, the Tay Giai ancient house was restored in 2002 by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), ensuring the preservation of its original architectural features. Subsequently, UNESCO recognized the house as one of the 10 most typical folk ancient houses in Vietnam.
The Tay Giai ancient house is not only a historical relic but also a cultural symbol, a connection between the past and the present, between tradition and modernity.
An Attractive Destination Beside the Ho Citadel
Today, the Tay Giai ancient house has become an attractive destination for tourists visiting the Ho Citadel World Heritage Site. Visitors can admire the unique architectural beauty, learn about the history and culture of the house, as well as feel the peace and tranquility of the Vietnamese countryside.
The house is almost entirely made of wood, demonstrating the skill and sophistication of ancient artisans.
Visiting the Tay Giai ancient house is an interesting experience, helping tourists better understand the cultural and historical values of Vietnam.
Journey to Explore Other Ancient Houses
Besides the Tay Giai ancient house, Vietnam has many other beautiful ancient houses, each with its own beauty and associated with different historical and cultural stories. To fully explore the beauty of these ancient houses, you can plan a travel journey to discover the regions of Vietnam.
Intricately designed door system reflecting traditional Vietnamese architecture.
From ancient houses in Hoi An and Hue to Ruong houses in the Mekong Delta, each destination will bring you unique and unforgettable experiences.
Travel Tips for Exploring Ancient Houses
To have a fulfilling trip exploring ancient houses, you should keep in mind a few things:
- Learn carefully about the ancient houses before going, including history, architecture, cultural values, and visiting regulations.
- Choose the appropriate time to travel. The dry season is usually the best time to visit ancient houses, as the weather is nice and there is little rain.
- Prepare appropriate attire, discreet and polite when visiting historical and cultural relics.
- Hire a local guide to hear interesting stories about the ancient houses and better understand their cultural values.
- Respect local regulations and maintain general hygiene when visiting.
Exquisite and detailed carvings on wood showcasing the talent of ancient artisans.
Carefully researching information and preparing thoughtfully will help you have a meaningful and fulfilling trip.
Conclusion
The most beautiful ancient houses in Vietnam are not only unique architectural works but also historical witnesses, carrying profound cultural values. Exploring these ancient houses is an interesting journey, helping us better understand the history, culture, and people of Vietnam. Take the time to explore and cherish these precious heritages, so that they may last forever and be passed down to future generations.
Solid blue stone steps, a unique detail representing the house's solidity and longevity.
Let the ancient houses tell you stories of the past, so you can feel the beauty of Vietnamese culture and history.