Just 20 kilometers from the heart of Hanoi, Hong Van Commune in Thuong Tin District offers a delightful blend of rich cultural heritage, breathtaking scenery, and fascinating revolutionary history.

It is made up of many villages, among which Xam Xuyen, historically home to the navy of the Ly Dynasty, holds an important place in Vietnamese history. Under the brilliant command of Ly Thuong Kiet (1019-1105) and Linh Lang Dai Vuong, the village played a key role in repelling the Song Dynasty invasion. Today, the Xam Xuyen communal house stands proudly as a silent witness to this great victory.

The Xam Xuyen communal house undergoes renovation in 2021. Photo: thuongtin.hanoi.gov.vn

Built in the 11th century during the Ly Dynasty, the communal house is set on an elevated ground and offers a panoramic view. It overlooks a large lake where lotus blossoms bloom in the summer, releasing a subtle fragrance into the air.

 A cool well greets visitors at the entrance, flanked by two rows of towering trees that provide refreshing shade and a peaceful atmosphere. The village gracefully embraces the communal house to the left and rear, while an open space in front offers breathtaking views of the Red River levee meandering through the lush landscape and vibrant greenery beyond.

Nguyen Minh Thuan, Secretary of the Party Cell of Xam Xuyen Village, told The Hanoi Times about the fascinating history of the Xam Xuyen Communal House.

He explained that the original site of the communal house was on the banks of the Red River. However, in the 17th century, during the reign of King Le and Lord Trinh, it was rebuilt larger and more beautiful than its current location.

Charming courtyard of the communal house.

The communal house was built to honor the legacy of Linh Lang Dai Vuong, also known as Prince Hoang Chan, a nobleman and general during the Ly Dynasty. He played a key role in defending Vietnam against the invading Song Dynasty and was fallen in battle in 1077. In recognition of his extraordinary merits, the various kings throughout Vietnamese history bestowed upon him 14 royal ordinations, which are now carefully preserved by the local people.

Even today, the area still bears remnants of the Second Song-Viet War (1075-1077). Notable sites include Lach Hanh Field, once the port of the Ly Dynasty's navy; Dai Co Field, where scholars say the navy planted its flags; Thap But Field, where Linh Lang Dai Vuong stood to oversee the navy's training; and Cay Da (Banyan Tree) Temple and Than Sung (Gun Lord) Temple, dedicated to the worship of the god of weapons.

According to Minh Thuan, visitors will find it fascinating to explore the ancient architecture of this village's communal house. "It has a unique architecture after the character "Nhi" in the Sino-Vietnamese language, built on 24 sturdy ironwood columns," he said.

The Xam Xuyen communal house at night.

The communal house is a masterful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture, built with meticulous attention to detail. Its gate is supported by two imposing columns, and the surrounding walls are adorned with intricate carvings that follow the principles of ancient architectural design.

It has four main sections: Dai Bai, the central worship area; Hau Cung, the sanctuary; Thieu Huong, the central incensing area; and two sub-worship halls flanking the main hall.

The main worship hall is spacious, measuring 19.5 meters long and 7.9 meters wide, and is divided into five distinct areas. This hall was constructed using ironwood, rosewood, ebony, and teak, although ironwood was used most extensively as the roof is supported by 24 ironwood columns, each with an average circumference of 1.3 meters.

The hall also features eight cuon thu, or screw-shaped vertical boards. Four of these boards are beautifully carved with images of four sacred Vietnamese animals: the dragon, unicorn, turtle, and phoenix. The beams are also delicately sculpted, displaying the skill and artistry of the ancient craftsmen.

Intricate patterns, softly covered in timeless moss, adorn the side gate of the Xam Xuyen communal house.

According to local authorities, Xam Xuyen Commune is developing a cultural and spiritual tourism initiative that links the communal house to the legend of Chu Dong Tu, a revered saint and one of Vietnam's immortal Taoist gods, and his wife, Tien Dung Princess.

Nguyen Van Phuong, Vice Chairman of the Hong Van Commune People's Committee, said, "As part of our tourism development strategy, we are working on three major projects: one to revive and promote the legendary values of Chu Dong Tu and Tien Dung, combining local folklore with indigenous cultural traditions. We aim to make culture a cornerstone of our socio-economic development, with a special focus on the green economy."

Located on the outskirts of Hanoi, this heritage site has remained remarkably well-preserved, a testament to the Xam Xuyen villagers' dedication to preserving their historical heritage. In 1987, it was declared a national relic by the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture and Sports. In 2021, the Xam Xuyen communal house was renovated and expanded for better preservation and tourism.