VI
EN
When speaking of the Mekong Delta, one cannot help but think of the image of the traditional sampan boats alongside rows of coconut trees casting their shadows. Further south, one cannot miss the serene Khmer temples, weathered by time, covered in moss or resplendent in vibrant colors. These three-tiered roofs, soaring high against the blue sky, have become a symbol of the cultural and religious heritage of this land where "cranes fly freely and fish fill the rivers."
Built on the foundation of the old main hall (dating back to 1860) using durable materials, Ghositaram Pagoda retains the distinctive features of Theravada Buddhist architecture. The main hall always faces east-west with a strong, isosceles triangular roof.
The main hall's roof consists of three levels. Each level is divided into three sections. Each roof corner is stylized into a long, gracefully curved snake tail. The triangle between the two gables is intricately carved. The roof sections feature the image of a dragon's body, with its head positioned at the corners, its body extending with lively, curving fins.
Reportedly, artisan Danh Sa Rinh spent about four years completing the decorative patterns. Interspersed among the intricately carved pillars are bas-relief paintings depicting stories of the Buddha from his birth to his enlightenment, vividly portrayed with vibrant colors that captivate viewers.
With an area of 427.5 square meters and a height of 36.3 meters, Ghositaram Pagoda is not only the Khmer pagoda with the largest main hall in Vietnam, but also a place of study and training for thousands of monks from neighboring provinces and cities. The pagoda stands as a highlight in the religious culture of the Mekong Delta region.
