Amid the vibrant cityscape of Can Tho, a serene and historic village still stands strong after centuries. Long Tuyền Ancient Village, located in Binh Thuy District, offers travelers a rare glimpse into the cultural richness and architectural elegance of southern Vietnam’s past.
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The Origin of Long Tuyen – “The Dragon Stream”
The name “Long Tuyen” dates back to 1908 and means “Dragon Stream.” Legend has it that the entrance to Long Tuyen canal resembles a dragon’s mouth, while the winding stream forms its body. In the past, Long n was the name of an entire commune, but over time it has come to represent a wider area known for its historical and cultural sites, with Binh Thuy Communal House at its heart.
A Village of Prosperity and Heritage
Long Tuyen once thrived as a prosperous village, and the legacy of that golden age is still preserved in its ancient architecture. The most prominent landmark is Binh Thuy Communal House, also known as Long n Temple, believed to have been first built in 1844 after a great flood. Locals constructed a wooden, thatch-roofed structure to pray for peace and prosperity—laying the spiritual foundation of the village.
Binh Thuy Communal House – A Cultural Treasure
Binh Thuy Communal House is a masterpiece of Southern Vietnamese architecture. From its elaborately carved beams and gilded altars to the detailed hoành phi (horizontal boards) and câu đối (parallel sentences), every corner of this building breathes history. Despite the passage of time, its original style remains remarkably well-preserved, drawing thousands of visitors every year.
Nam Nha Pagoda – Where East Meets West
Directly across from the communal house stands Nam Nha Pagoda, a site that once served as a communication point for revolutionary forces across Vietnam. Architecturally unique, the pagoda’s façade may trick visitors into thinking it was once a colonial mansion. The blend of Eastern spiritual design and Western influence makes it one of the most intriguing sites in the Mekong Delta.
Ancient Homes and the Allure of the Past
Long n Village is home to 13 remaining ancient houses, each echoing the legacy of their ancestors. Among them, the most notable is the Binh Thuy Ancient House, also called Vườn Lan House (Lan Garden House) because of the abundance of blooming orchids surrounding it year-round.
This home is a fusion of East and West. Its exterior mimics the elegance of a French colonial mansion, while its interior follows the traditional Vietnamese layout of three compartments and two wings. Visitors will be greeted by descendants of the original Dương family, who passionately share the stories and secrets of their ancestral home.
A Taste of the Old Village – Dương Family’s Shrimp Crackers
No visit to Long n is complete without sampling its culinary gem: Dương Family shrimp crackers (bánh phồng tôm Dương gia). Made from pure shrimp meat and egg whites, these hand-crafted crackers represent the essence of village cuisine and time-honored craftsmanship.
Why Long Tuyen Ancient Village Should Be on Your Itinerary
Whether you are passionate about architecture, history, or authentic culture, Long Tuyen Ancient Village offers a meaningful journey into Vietnam’s soul. The peaceful roads, centuries-old houses, and sacred temples form a living museum nestled in the modernity of Can Tho.
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