The Mekong Delta in general and Can Tho in particular have long been home to many ethnic groups, such as the Kinh, Khmer, Hoa, and Cham, contributing to the region’s diverse cultural identities and spiritual beliefs. In particular, the spiritual works of the Chinese and Khmer communities always create a unique appeal that attracts many tourists from all over to visit. It is impossible not to mention Pothisomron Pagoda – famous ancient Khmer pagoda in Can Tho.

General information about Pothisomron Pagoda

Pothisomron Pagoda is an ancient Khmer pagoda located on 1144 QL 91, O Mon Ward. The pagoda was recognized as a city-level historical and cultural relic in 2006. Through many ups and downs, the pagoda has changed locations twice. The first time, the pagoda was built at O Mon arch, then moved to Bo Rich, and later to its present location. There are many trees, including a tree called Somron, so part of the pagoda’s name is Som Ron.

Pothisomron Pagoda
Pothisomron Pagoda is located along the O Mon River

Initially, in 1735, Pothisomron Pagoda was built with simple materials such as leaves and bamboo. By 1856, the pagoda had been built of precious wood and covered with fish-scale tiles. Nearly 100 years later, realizing that the pagoda was too degraded, Venerable Thach Khieng, Abbot of the pagoda from 1950 to 1988, went to Phnom Penh to request a new design from Cambodia’s famous architects, based on preserving traditional architecture. Construction on the new pagoda began in June 1950 and was completed in 1952. This architecture is kept to this day.

Architecture of Pothisomron Pagoda

One of the special features of Pothisomron Pagoda is its unique and diverse architecture. The pagoda was built in an Asian architectural style, with curved domes and meticulously carved Buddha statues. However, you can also see the influence of Western architecture in the pillars and white-painted walls.

Pothisomron Pagoda
Main gate of Pothisomron Pagoda

The main hall is a prominent building in the architectural complex of the Pothisomron Pagoda, oriented to the east. Khmer people believe that although Buddha is in the Western world, he always looks towards the East to save sentient beings. The main hall’s roof has three overlapping levels, with a dragon image running along the edge of the roof, its tail reaching straight up into the sky. The columns, fences, door frames, roof tops, and walls are all meticulously carved with geometric and water hyacinth patterns.

Pothisomron Pagoda

Most Khmer pagodas have towers to house the ashes of predecessors, but perhaps there are a few pagodas that have preserved a tower more than 200 years old, like Pothi Somron Pagoda. This tower, built of laterite and bricks, stands right in front of the main hall and dates back to the 18th century. Inside this tower remains of many Buddhists and have been preserved for many generations. 

According to Venerable Dao Nhu, abbot of the pagoda since 1988, some Buddhists have asked to rebuild and renew the exterior of the tower, but the pagoda has refused, as this is evidence of its history and culture.

Pothisomron Pagoda

Inside the pagoda, visitors will admire many antiques. These are wooden swallow wings made in 1856, carved with images depicting stories about Shakyamuni Buddha; more than 100 sets of Satra sutras (leaf books); and 17 wooden statues, all nearly 200 years old.

A characteristic of most Khmer pagoda architecture is different. Below the main hall, the windows and walls are painted gold and look quite impressive (Obviously, this is a great check-in background). Inside are different Shakyamuni Buddha statues, and on each ceiling wall is an image of the Buddha’s life.

The Buddha statue in the Center of the Main Hall was carved in 1885. Another special thing is a traditional boat behind the guest house, eye-catching in length, irresistibly beautiful.

Pothisomron Pagoda

The beauty of Pothisomron pagoda is further enhanced by a large perennial sala tree, which is said to have been brought back from India, planted in a corner of the yard since 1969, always blooming with elegant and fragrant flowers.

Useful information about Pothisomron Pagoda

Source: collected by An

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