Discover the scenic forest reserve of Ba Trieu Temple

1. Explore the landscape protection forest of Ba Trieu Temple

1.1. Geographical location and scale of the landscape protection forest of Ba Trieu Temple

The landscape protection forest of Ba Trieu Temple is located in Trieu Loc commune, Thanh Hoa province, about 17 km north of Thanh Hoa city center. This is a special-use forest within the system of Vietnam's ecological tourism landscape protection forests, associated with the historical relic of Ba Trieu Temple – the place honoring the heroine Trieu Thi Trinh. With its location surrounding the temple complex, the forest not only contributes to preserving the solemnity of the relic but also creates a cool, peaceful green space, bearing the strong imprint of the sacred land of Thanh Hoa.

Ba Trieu Temple landscape protection forest is located in Trieu Loc commune, Thanh Hoa province. (Source: Collected)

1.2. History of formation and mission of heritage conservation

The Ba Trieu Temple landscape protection forest was established under Decision No. 194/CT dated August 9, 1986, by the Prime Minister. Since then, the forest has always played an important role in conserving the natural environment, contributing to ecological balance around the relic site. Besides its landscape protection function, the forest also serves ecological tourism activities, patriotic tradition education, and local community development. The harmonious combination of historical, cultural, and natural elements has made this place a special destination, where a glorious past and beautiful nature blend together in a sacred and vibrant space.

2. Understanding the historical and cultural values of the Ba Trieu Temple landscape protection forest

2.1. Protection of Ba Trieu Temple

Located in the sacred space of Trieu Loc commune, Ba Trieu Temple is where people remember and honor the heroine Trieu Thi Trinh – who rose up to fight against the Ngô invaders in the 3rd century. The temple has a history of hundreds of years, built in the characteristic "noi cong ngoai quoc" architecture of ancient Vietnamese worship structures, both majestic and harmonious with the natural landscape. The temple's space leans against the mountain, facing the vast fields, reflecting the feng shui concept of "toa son huong thuy" (sitting on a mountain, facing water) signifying peace and sustainability.

The forest plays a role in protecting the sacred Ba Trieu Temple. (Source: Collected)

Surrounding the relic site is the khu rung bao ve canh quan den Ba Trieu, like a green cloak shielding the temple from the impacts of weather and time. The year-round shade from the trees creates a solemn and tranquil space, while also regulating the climate, preventing erosion, and protecting the foundation of the structure. Thanks to this forest, the Ba Trieu Temple is not only physically preserved but also enhanced in its sacredness, serving as a place where every visitor offering incense can deeply feel gratitude and pride for the heroic woman in the nation's history.

2.2. Special National Monument Complex

Not only ecologically significant, the khu rung bao ve canh quan den Ba Trieu is also an important part of the historical and cultural monument complex of Ba Trieu Temple, recognized as a special national monument of Vietnam. This recognition not only affirms the immense value of the relic to the nation's history but also demonstrates the gratitude of today's generations towards the hero who brought glory to the country.

Through many stages of appraisal and conservation, the monument complex is considered a vivid testament to the patriotic tradition, indomitable spirit, and the role of Vietnamese women in history. The temple space, along with the khu rung bao ve canh quan den Ba Trieu, creates a unique harmony between nature, architecture, and spirituality, evoking sacred emotions in everyone who visits.

Today, the influence of the monument complex lies not only in its cultural and historical value but also in its ability to foster community cohesion. Annually, tens of thousands of tourists and people from all over come here to offer incense, commemorate, and participate in traditional festivals, contributing to nurturing the spirit of returning to one's roots, fostering national pride, and raising awareness of heritage preservation.

2.3. Ba Trieu Temple Festival and Local Cultural Highlights

Every year, from the 20th to the 23rd day of the second lunar month, the people of Thanh Hoa and visitors from all directions eagerly return to Ba Trieu Temple to attend the grand traditional festival. This is an occasion to commemorate the great contributions of the heroine Trieu Thi Trinh, who ignited the spirit of rebellion and national pride through generations.

The festival takes place in a sacred space, surrounded by lush green trees, with many solemn traditional rituals such as the presentation ceremony, offering ceremony, ceremony of settling in place, palace procession, and offering incense to inform the spirit of Ba Trieu. Additionally, within the festival's framework, there are special ceremonies like the ritual bathing ceremony, Phung Nghinh offering ceremony, procession of spirits/images, female official offering ceremony, and a battle reenactment festival at the Phu Dien village communal house – the site marking the glorious victories of Ba Trieu's rebel army.

The Ba Trieu Temple Festival is organized at a provincial level by the Thanh Hoa Provincial People's Committee, serving as a major spiritual and cultural event for the people of the Thanh Hoa region. It is not only an occasion to commemorate the contributions of the national heroine but also a festival of solidarity and regional pride. The resounding festival drums, the spreading incense smoke, and the colors of the palace processions blend in the sacred atmosphere, creating a solemn yet intimate ambiance, allowing each visitor to feel their heart settle in deep gratitude.

3. Visiting Experience for the khu rung canh quan den Ba Trieu

For a complete and meaningful visit, tourists should choose the appropriate time and be fully prepared before coming to the khu rung bao ve canh quan den Ba Trieu. Spring and early summer are the most ideal times, with cool weather, lush greenery, and fresh air. If visiting during the Ba Trieu Temple festival (from the 20th to the 23rd of the second lunar month), visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, witness unique traditional rituals, and clearly feel the village festival spirit of the Thanh Hoa region's people.

Solemn festival atmosphere at Ba Trieu Temple. (Source: Thanh Tra Newspaper)

When moving through the forest, visitors should choose light and comfortable clothing, bring drinking water, hats, and sports shoes for convenience. Loud noises should be avoided, and littering is prohibited to preserve the natural environment. Besides offering incense to commemorate at the temple, visitors can stroll under the trees, enjoy the cool air, and listen to the sounds of nature, to fully appreciate the harmonious beauty between humans and the land.

4. Combine visits to famous tourist destinations in Thanh Hoa

After visiting the Ba Trieu Temple landscape protection forest, visitors can combine visits to other famous tourist spots in Thanh Hoa such as Sam Son beach, Pu Luong, Cam Luong sacred fish stream, or Ben En National Park. Each destination has its own unique charm, contributing to an impressive and memorable journey of exploring Thanh Hoa.

4.1. Sam Son Beach

For a long time, Sam Son beach has been the pride of Thanh Hoa tourism, a place where visitors come to immerse themselves in the vibrant rhythm of the sea. The crescent-shaped golden sand, clear blue water, and endless murmuring waves create a scene that is both poetic and full of life. Every dawn or sunset, Sam Son dons a different beauty, sometimes brilliant, sometimes gentle, captivating the hearts of all.

Visiting Sam Son, besides immersing yourself in the cool water and enjoying the fresh sea air, you can also visit landmarks associated with Thanh Hoa's folk legends such as Hon Trong Mai, Doc Cuoc Temple, Co Tien Temple,... After visiting these sites, you can stop by the Sam Son beach square to stroll, take photos, enjoy local specialties, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Thanh Hoa at night. Amidst the dazzling lights and lively water music, Sam Son appears youthful and modern, yet retains the rustic, familiar charm of the Vietnamese coast.

4.2. Pu Luong

Located in the northwest of Thanh Hoa province, Pu Luong Nature Reserve is an ideal destination for those who want to temporarily escape the bustling city life and return to pristine nature. This place is blessed by nature with a rich ecosystem featuring streams, waterfalls, green forests, caves, majestic mountains interspersed with golden terraced fields and small villages nestled on the mountainsides.

Pu Luong scenery is as beautiful as a painting. (Source: Collected)

Coming to Pu Luong, visitors will have the opportunity to breathe the fresh air of the mountainous region, listen to the babbling streams amidst the mountains and forests, and discover the simple life of the Thai, Muong ethnic groups. Simple stilt houses, friendly smiles, and cuisine rich in mountain flavors such as sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes, free-range chicken, and fermented rice wine... make the journey to discover Pu Luong an unforgettable experience, where visitors can truly immerse themselves in the peaceful rhythm of Thanh Hoa's nature.

4.3. Ben En National Park

Ben En National Park is compared to the "inland Ha Long Bay of Thanh Hoa" thanks to its picturesque landscape of mountains and water and one of the richest ecosystems in the North. This area boasts over 4,000 hectares of primary forest and hundreds of large and small islands floating in the middle of the lake, creating a majestic yet poetic natural picture. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the fresh space, let their souls drift with the cool breeze, and gaze at the blue water stretching to the horizon.

Ben En is also an ideal destination for those who love experiencing and exploring nature. Visitors can row boats on the lake, fish, swim, or camp amidst the peaceful mountain and forest scenery. Additionally, Ngoc Cave with its sparkling stalactites, and the Ben En Museum preserving many precious relics and artifacts, will make your journey more interesting.

Amidst the tradition-rich and heritage-filled Thanh Hoa, Ba Trieu Temple Landscape Protection Forest stands as a symbol of harmony between nature and history. This place not only preserves the sacred presence of the female national hero Trieu Thi Trinh but also serves as a peaceful haven for people to return to their roots and feel the beauty of nature and the heavens. Visit the Ba Trieu Temple Landscape Protection Forest, to listen to the wind rustling through the leaves, immerse yourself in the sacred space of the relic, and let your heart settle in pride for the heroic land of Thanh Hoa.