Nguyen Dinh Chieu Tomb Relic Site, Ben Tre

Key Structures in the Relic Site

* Tam Quan Gate

The gate features traditional Vietnamese architecture with two stacked roofs, covered in red "âm dương" tiles, large red-painted columns, and decorative patterns and reliefs that express dignity and solemnity.

* Memorial House

This two-story, 12-meter high structure has stylized floral decorations on the outer walls, while the inner walls feature images of the "Four Sacred Creatures." A stone tablet inside commemorates Nguyen Dinh Chieu’s contributions and biography.

* New Temple

Built between 2000-2002, the New Temple stands 21 meters tall and is designed in the traditional "Trùng Thiềm Điệp Ốc" architectural style with a "âm dương" tiled roof. The upper floor holds a 1.6-meter, 1.2-ton bronze statue of Nguyen Dinh Chieu. The ground floor displays images and artifacts related to his life.

* Old Temple

Built in 1972, the Old Temple is a two-story structure covering 84 square meters, decorated with famous verses from Nguyen Dinh Chieu's works and images of freedom fighters who resisted French colonialism.

* Grave of Nguyen Dinh Chieu

Located to the left of the memorial house, this is the final resting place of Nguyen Dinh Chieu and his wife. Nearby is the grave of his daughter, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Khue, a famous poet and journalist.

Introduction to the Life and Career of Nguyen Dinh Chieu

Nguyen Dinh Chieu (1822 - 1888) was born in Tan Thoi, Binh Duong District (now part of Ho Chi Minh City). He passed the tú tài exam in 1843, but in 1849, he lost his sight after grieving the death of his mother. Despite being blind, he continued his career as a teacher, running a school and practicing medicine for the local people. He was an exemplary teacher, a devoted doctor, and a talented poet, known for his famous works such as "Luc Van Tien", "Duong Tu - Ha Mau", and "Van Te Truong Dinh".

Memorial Festival and Commemorative Programs

Every year, on July 1st, the birthday of Nguyen Dinh Chieu, the people of Ben Tre organize a traditional festival to honor and remember the patriotic poet. The festival includes a variety of activities, such as:

Offering incense and reading commemorative poems.

- Reciting poems from "Luc Van Tien" and dressing up as characters from the story.

- Performing excerpts from "Luc Van Tien - Kieu Nguyet Nga" (a traditional Vietnamese opera).

- Traditional folk games, such as tug-of-war, sack races, and pottery smashing.

The festival is not only an opportunity for the locals to reflect on cultural values and patriotism but also a chance for visitors to learn more about Nguyen Dinh Chieu’s life and career, while engaging in fun activities.

The Nguyen Dinh Chieu Tomb Relic Site is not just a memorial to a great teacher but also an educational destination that promotes cultural, historical, and patriotic values for the younger generation. As one of the nationally recognized historical sites, it is deeply connected with the life and legacy of one of Vietnam’s greatest patriotic poets. Visitors to the site can not only admire the intricate architecture but also feel a profound respect for the teacher, doctor, and poet who dedicated his life to his country and people.