Travelling to Tra Vinh province, tourists had better visit to Angkorajaborey ancient pagoda (Ang pagoda) built more than a thousand years ago. The pagoda has very unique architecture is a place for monks to practice religion and for Khmer people to organize cultural activities.
Ang pagoda is located 7km from the centre of Tra Vinh town. According to legendary, Ang pagoda was built in 990 with bamboos and leaves. In 1842, the pagoda was restored with precious wood and tiled roof. Many restorations, currently the pagoda still retains its typical features of Khmer ancient pagoda.
The unique ancient of Ang pagoda
The pagoda covers an area of 4 hectares, surrounded by ponds and hundreds of ancient trees aged hundreds of years. The gate was built with 3 towers. Two pillars of gate are decorated with statues of Kennaarr dancers and bird-headed persons. The main hall is directed to the East, built on a platform of 2m high. The roof of main hall consists of 3 layers, two top roofs are more slope than the rest. The under-roof parts have the shape of the Snake Deity Naga with a curved tail.
The main hall carved with delicacy
The main hall of Ang pagoda worships the Buddha only and has about 50 small Buddhist statues. On the wall of the main hall had paintings to tell about the Buddha’s life.
The Khmer language class opens in the lobby of the pagoda
Along with the system of 141 pagodas of Khmer people in Tra Vinh province, Ang pagoda is not only a place for monks to practice religion and for Khmer youth to study Buddhism but also a cultural centre. In summer days, there often has a Khmer language class for Khmer children in the locality. These children of all ages are taught Khmer language’s writing and pronunciation by monks in the pagoda. These teachings contribute to preserve identities of Khmer culture.
Minh Giang
