Located peacefully along the Northern coastal strip, the Memorial Area for the Mac Kings in Co Trai Village (Hai Phong) is not only a majestic architectural work but also a bridge across time, leading visitors back to the mysterious and heroic historical pages of the Mac Dynasty.
The Mạc Dynasty King Memorial Area viewed from the entrance gate
(Source: collected information)
Duong Kinh – An Epic from the Sea
Unlike capitals located deep inland, the Mac Dynasty created a distinct mark by choosing ancient Duong Kinh (now Kien Hung) as its center of power. This is considered the first coastal capital in Vietnam's feudal history. Establishing headquarters in this coastal land not only demonstrated a strategic vision but also served as a testament to the blood bondbetween the dynasty and its origins from seafaring fishermen. Coming here, you will feel the breath of the sea blending into every historical vestige of a dynasty that, although ruling for only 66 years, left behind an enduring cultural heritage.
Artistic Architecture
The attraction of the Memorial Area also lies in its unique architectural beauty, where the solemnity of blue stone harmonizes with the warmth of ancient wood.
- Sculptural Essence: Visitors will be amazed at the Main Sanctuary, home to a large monolithic blue stone dragon statue with soft curves reminiscent of Ly Dynasty Art. Sacred mythical creatures such as the lion-like creature (Nghe), the Qilin (Lan), and Dragon are exquisitely decorated, reflecting the master carving techniques of ancient artisans.
- Solemnity of Worship: Stepping into the interior space, the scent of wood and the radiance of lacquered and gilded statues create a sacred and vigorous atmosphere. Dotted throughout the complex are unique stone steles, typically the one at Tra Phuong Pagoda, which tells cultural stories spanning a thousand generations.
Main altar in the Mạc Dynasty Memorial Area (Source: HaiphongNews)
Where the Academic Lineage Flows Eternally
Co Trai is not only a royal land but also the cradle of educational tradition. This land has produced many high-ranking graduates who have held important national responsibilities throughout various periods. If you visit on the 6th day of the Lunar New Year, you will be immersed in the Spring Pen-Opening Ceremony—a cultural experience not to be missed. Amidst the solemn space of the "Divine Pen" procession ritual, hundreds of students and tourists together send their wishes for a happy and successful new year through the very first characters written in the new year.
A journey to visit the Memorial Area for the Mac Kings is not just a tour, but an experience to understand the stature of the nation’s only coastal capital. Come to touch the thousand-year-old blue stone with your own hands, listen to the echoes of history, and find peace of mind in a land of extraordinary people.
Vietnam is entering a new era of development, and heritage values such as the Memorial Area for the Mac Kings serve as a foundation for us to reach further and connect with global value chains while still preserving our national identity.
Hai Phong welcomes visitors to the coastal capital!