Cây Đề Shrine

Cây Đề Shrine is a relic tied to the religious life of the people of Nhân Mỹ Village, Hà Nội, and stands next to Thanh Quang Pagoda. Its name comes from a large banyan tree that once grew in front of the relic. The shrine worships Lý Thiên Bảo, a king of the Early Lý dynasty who contributed to fighting the Liang army and protecting the country of Vạn Xuân. This worship expresses the tradition of “remembering the source when drinking water” and the people's wish for a peaceful and prosperous life.

The shrine complex includes a gate, courtyard, semicircular pond, Front Hall, Rear Sanctuary, and guest house. The main architecture is arranged in the shape of the character Đinh, with a five-bay Front Hall connected to the Rear Sanctuary behind. The wooden structural system, tiled roof, and carvings of dragons and the four sacred creatures create the distinctive character of traditional architecture.

The shrine is also associated with rituals, palanquin processions, and the custom of offering fish soup in local religious activities. These customs help preserve the close relationship among the villages of Nhân Mỹ, Đình Thôn, and Mễ Trì. Visiting Cây Đề Shrine, tourists have the opportunity to learn about the history, architecture, and community cultural features transmitted through many generations.