Ha Noi authorities received a certificate honouring the Huong Son landscape complex, also known as Huong Pagoda, in My Duc district on September 19.
The Huong Son complex consists of Buddhist pagodas and caves and temples worshipping local agricultural gods.
The complex was built under the reign of King Le Thanh Tong (1442 – 1497). It was destroyed by French colonialists but has been rebuilt with the support of the State, local residents and visitors.
Aside from its religious significance, the complex also holds special values in terms of ecosystem, landscape, architecture and history.
The traditional Huong Pagoda Festival from the first through the third lunar month each year is one of the biggest of its kind in Viet Nam, helping the complex attract millions of visitors every year.
The Huong Son complex was listed among special national relic sites in December 2017.
At the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam presented the certificate to authorities of My Duc district and the pagoda’s representatives.
Addressing the event, Politburo member and Secretary of the Ha Noi Party Committee Hoang Trung Hai said it was an honour for the administration and people of My Duc district and the capital city to receive the recognition.
They would make utmost efforts to uphold the relic site’s values to turn it into a destination for not only spiritual tourism but also for educating in history, culture and environment, he added.
The ceremony also aimed to mark the 130th founding anniversary of My Duc district and 60 years since then President Ho Chi Minh visited Huong Pagoda.