The temple of Chem village (Tu Liem district, Hanoi) is dedicated to the cult of Ly Ong Trong, a legendary hero who was sent to China to help the Qin (Tan) Emperor…
Chem Temple Festival
The temple of Chem village (Tu Liem district, Hanoi) is dedicated to the cult of Ly Ong Trong, a legendary hero who was sent to China to help the Qin (Tan) Emperor drive out the barbarous Hung invaders. After the victory, he was conferred the title of Marquis: “Phuc tin hau”. He returned to his country where he spent the remainder of his life. The festival takes place on the 15th day of the 5th lunar month. It begins with the ceremony of ablution: Ly Ong Trong’s statue is taken to the Red River (legend has it that after his return from China, he used to take a bath there). Large paper costumes are offered as votive objects. The sacrifice also comprises limpid water taken from the middle of the current by young unmarried men. Popular entertainment consists of swinging, a bird releasing contest, traditional wrestling, cheo popular theatre, and human chess.
