The One Pillar Pagoda

The One Pillar Pagoda is located in Ho Chi Minh complex and next to Ho Chi Minh Museum. You can catch the image at the behind of 5.000 VND coin. In 2002, it is considered to be the most beautiful architectural pagodar in Asia.
The pagoda was constructed under dynasty Ly 1049 due to the dream of the king. The legend goes that Ly Thai Tong was childless and dreamt that he met the bodhisattva sitting on a lotus and leading him to a similar building. Then the queen gave birth to a child. He was advised by Thien Tue monk to build the pagoda supported by only one pillar to resemble the lotus seat of his dream in the honor of the Bodhisattva.
In 1105, Ly Nhan Tong extended the pagoda and added Linh Chieu bond. It means to enlighten and awaken the pure soul of people. The pagoda was made of wood on a single stone pillar. The pillar pitched deeply into pond like to transfer vitality of heaven to make bumper crop and fertile soil. In 1954, the French forces destroyed the pagoda before withdrawing from Vietnam. Afterwards it was rebuilt basing on initial style by Nguyen Ba Lang architect.
Nowaday, it remains unique, ancient and sacred. Not only is it famous for special architectural construction but it also is symbol of Vietnamese culture and religion.
Except for Ho Chi Minh Museum, you are totally free when visiting others in Ho Chi Minh complex.