1. A brief overview of the ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen
The ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen , visitors feel as if they are returning to a glorious past of Vietnam's traditional education. The space here preserves great historical values, while reflecting the talent and character of an outstanding son that the country once took pride in.
1.1. Location and history of formation of the ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen.
The ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen is located in Binh An commune, Ninh Binh province, formerly belonging to Yen Do village. This location is associated with the life and creative journey of the great poet Nguyen Khuyen, a great symbol in the nation's cultural life.
The ancient house was where Nguyen Khuyen lived during his years of teaching, writing poetry, and also the time after he retired to his hometown. Although born in Nam Dinh, he grew up and left a strong mark in his ancestral hometown of Yen Do. It was here that he taught many talented students and composed poems that enriched the nation's literary treasure. Preserved through generations, the house is now the ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen with a solemn appearance.
The village associated with the life and creative journey of the great poet Nguyen Khuyen. (Source: Collected)
1.2. Special historical and cultural values of the relic.
Nguyen Khuyen Poet's Ancestral House holds profound significance as a space for worship and preservation of many artifacts, documents, couplets, and horizontal lacquered boards associated with his life and academic career. These mementos help visitors clearly visualize the academic atmosphere and traditions of the Northern Delta region in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen carries many historical and cultural values. (Source: Collected)
This place is a foundation for the spirit of studiousness, promoting morality with profound teachings such as "Before learning letters, one must learn how to be a person". The value that the relic brings spreads from the time of Mr. Nguyen Khuyen to the present generations, creating motivation to preserve the spirit of knowledge and good traditions for the homeland and the whole country.
1.3. Recognized as a national historical relic in 1991.
In 1991, the Ministry of Culture and Information (now the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism) officially included the ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen in the list of National Historical – Cultural Relics. This recognition demonstrates the respect that the State has for the precious heritage of the nation.
With this recognition, the ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen is more strictly protected, simultaneously becoming a center for traditional education, promoting its role in the spiritual and historical tourism activities of the region. This is also an ideal destination for everyone who wants to learn about and absorb the values of folk culture.
2. Unique architecture and space of the ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen
The solemn and ancient features of the ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen spread from every small detail, creating a strong impression from the first moment of arrival. The space here is filled with historical stories and spiritual values passed down through generations.
2.1. Imprint of traditional Northern Vietnamese architecture.
The ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen bears the typical appearance of traditional architecture in the Northern Delta region. The entire structure is elaborately built with an ancient small brick gate, a 7-bay main hall, and inside is a solemn sanctuary. Sturdy large ironwood pillars, strong purlins and rafters, a courtyard paved with traditional red bricks, and a yin-yang tiled roof create a beauty that is both rustic and majestic.
The ancestral house bears the imprint of traditional Northern Vietnamese architecture. (Source: Collected)
The main gate stands out with the inscription "Mon Tu Mon", emphasizing the educational tradition. From the entrance, 9 stone steps symbolize the aspiration to rise in the path of scholarship, while the aligned rooms represent the upright and honest character of scholars. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the ancestral house conveys profound life philosophies and educational values.
The garden space is paved with red bricks and shaded by green trees, creating a sense of closeness and tranquility. Three hundred-year-old "tien vua" (royal tribute) longan trees still stand majestically in the yard, symbolizing "Tam Nguyen Yen Do" – the pride of the resounding academic tradition of the North.
The garden space of the ancestral house brings a feeling of closeness and peace. (Source: Collected)
2.2. Precious artifacts and relics preserved in the ancestral house.
Entering the ancestral house, visitors can admire many artifacts associated with the life and career of poet Nguyen Khuyen. Book chests and scroll cases used during the feudal examination period are preserved intact, evoking memories of a time of diligent study.
Notably, the plaques "An tu vinh quy", "Nhi giap tien si" awarded by King Tu Duc and Nguyen Khuyen's court robe as a censor are still carefully preserved. These relics help clearly depict his prominent position and outstanding talent in the society of that time.
Mộ bia đá khắc bài thơ “Thu Điếu” (Autumn Fishing) bằng ba thứ tiếng. (Nguồn: Sưu tầm)
2.3. Memorial space, continuing the spirit of knowledge.
Ngày nay, từ đường nhà thơ Nguyễn Khuyến không chỉ là nơi thờ tự mà còn là điểm đến văn hóa – giáo dục quan trọng. Nơi đây thường xuyên tổ chức lễ giỗ, lễ tưởng niệm, hội thảo và các buổi tọa đàm về văn học, lịch sử, giúp lan tỏa tinh thần hiếu học, nhân cách cao đẹp và tình yêu quê hương đất nước.
Rất nhiều đoàn học sinh, sinh viên tới đây để học tập, tìm hiểu về văn hóa truyền thống. Qua những buổi tham quan, thế hệ trẻ có cơ hội cảm nhận sâu sắc hơn về giá trị tri thức, đạo đức và tinh thần nhân văn mà cụ Nguyễn Khuyến để lại.
During each exam season, scholars from all over gather here to offer incense to the respected elder. (Source: Collected)
3. Ideal Visiting Times and Festivals, Events at the Ancestral House
The most ideal time to visit the ancestral house is during the festival commemorating the birthday (2nd lunar month) and death anniversary (November solar month) of poet Nguyen Khuyen. At this time, traditional festivals and "return to the source" programs for students take place with a solemn and meaningful atmosphere.
Especially, besides the annual commemoration ceremony, this place also organizes thematic seminars on "Tam Nguyen Yen Do", and attractive traditional poetry and music performances. These occasions not only awaken a love for culture but also create opportunities for visitors to interact and gain a deeper understanding of the heritage.
Autumn pond of four seasons emanates the fragrance of lotus. (Source: Collected)
Visitors should follow the monument's activity schedule to participate in these special events. The activities often feature researchers, teachers, and students, adding to the academic atmosphere and community cohesion.
When visiting the ancestral house of poet Nguyen Khuyen, visitors should choose modest, polite attire to show respect for the sacred space. It is advisable to avoid wearing short, revealing clothing; instead, shirts, long skirts, or traditional long dresses are very suitable.
The winding bamboo alley that the poet depicted in the poem "Thu điếu". (Source: Collected)
During the visit, maintain order and do not disturb the quiet atmosphere of the sacred place. Absolutely do not touch valuable artifacts without permission, and ensure general hygiene within the historical site. When taking photos, do so with reverence.
Additionally, visitors should learn about local customs regarding incense offering, bowing, or seeking permission when taking photos in sacred spaces. This carefulness and discretion not only make the trip more meaningful but also contribute to protecting the sacred value of the temple of poet Nguyen Khuyen.
4. Combine with nearby tourist experiences near the temple of poet Nguyen Khuyen
Exploring the temple of poet Nguyen Khuyen becomes more interesting when visitors combine it with visits to nearby locations with many unique cultural and historical features, making the trip more complete and colorful.
Temple of Poet Nguyen Khuyen carries unique historical and cultural features. (Source: Collected)
A day of experience begins in the morning with a visit to the Temple of Poet Nguyen Khuyen, combined with attending cultural exchange programs and extracurricular activities taking place at the relic site. Spending about 2 hours visiting, listening to introductions, and learning about artifacts, visitors will fully appreciate the solemn atmosphere and traditional values here.
For lunch, the recommended menu includes signature dishes such as Vu Dai village braised fish or Phu Ly steamed rolls at local eateries, offering a complete experience of the culinary culture of the Northern Delta region.
In the afternoon, continue the journey by visiting Kien So Church or Ba Danh Pagoda and exploring traditional craft villages if time permits. The itinerary alternates academic elements with local cultural exploration, making the trip an unforgettable memory.
The Temple of Poet Nguyen Khuyen is not only a national historical relic but also a source of inspiration for the tradition of learning and noble character. Plan a visit to fully appreciate the cultural values and intellectual spirit of this place!
