Dich Diep village, established in the 11th century, captivates visitors with its traditional Vietnamese architecture and an 800-year-old heritage tree, recognized as a national treasure.
Located about 110 kilometers from Ha Noi and 20 kilometers from Nam Dinh City, Dich Diep village, part of Truc Chinh commune in Truc Ninh district, is one of the oldest villages in northern Vietnam. According to locals, Dich Diep was established in the early 11th century, initially known as Dich Diep Trang.
The peaceful scenery of Dich Diep village.
The village retains the charm of a traditional Vietnamese rural setting, complete with ancient banyan trees, temples, pagodas, and wells. It has become a sanctuary for visitors seeking moments of peace and “healing.”
Viewed from above, Dich Diep village resembles a ship, with its prow pointed toward the southern gate.
Photographer Nguyen Trong Cung, a visitor from Thai Binh, was captivated by the serene and picturesque atmosphere, reflecting the timeless beauty of northern Vietnamese villages.
Dich Diep boasts significant historical structures, including six ancient house gates, a southern village gate, two wooden houses (one over 100 years old and another more than 200 years old with distinctive tiled roofs), a stone arch bridge built in 1864, and three wells at the village’s edge.
Among these, the southern village gate and its adjoining stone bridge stand out as focal points for visitors.
The village pond and well area.
The stone bridge near the southern gate.
While strolling through the village, visitors will encounter intricately designed gates. These parabolic arch gates are adorned with curved, tile-covered roofs supported by upright pillars meticulously decorated with elaborate carvings.
The gate facades are inscribed with traditional maxims reflecting the homeowner’s principles and virtues. Gate sizes and styles vary depending on the family’s position and means.
The southern village gate (left) and a house gate (right).
Dich Diep is also home to an 800-year-old Bodhi tree, a true “green treasure.” Standing over 20 meters tall, the tree’s massive trunk requires at least five adults to encircle it fully.
The ancient Bodhi tree with its sprawling roots. Photos by Nguyen Trong Cung
The tree's roots, some as thick as 40 centimeters, extend deeply into the earth, creating a powerful symbol of resilience. In April 2021, the Vietnam Association for Conservation of Nature and Environment officially recognized the tree as a Vietnamese Heritage Tree for its historical and ecological significance.
Thao Trinh