Phố Cũ Temple

About

Phố Cũ Temple stands in Cao Bằng’s old quarter. From its beginnings as a shrine to Quan Đế, it developed into a space that also worships the Buddha, preserving historical traces and spiritual life amid the city.

Visitor information

Founded

Originally a 17th-century Quan Đế shrine; Buddhist worship was added under the Nguyễn dynasty.

Visiting hours

Visiting hours may vary with the practice schedule; please ask the temple before your trip.

Fees

No fee has been confirmed by the temple. Please consult notices at the destination; services outside the temple may be charged separately.

Address

Số 111 đường Phố Cũ, phường Thục Phán, tỉnh Cao Bằng; trước đây thuộc phường Hợp Giang, thành phố Cao Bằng.

Highlights

• ✓A temple setting within Phố Cũ, the old quarter.
• ✓Inscriptions recording history and benefactions.
• ✓A layout with deity worship in front and Buddhist worship behind.
• ✓Architecture restored in 2019–2020.

History and origins

Its predecessor was a Quan Đế shrine founded in the late 17th century. Under the Nguyễn dynasty, the place was repaired, a Buddha hall was added and it became known as Phố Cũ Temple. On 22/8/1945, a rally and the inauguration of the local revolutionary administration took place here. It was listed as a provincial heritage site in 2002; restoration began in 2019 and was inaugurated in 2020, continuing efforts to preserve the monument.

Architecture & surroundings

Beyond the gate, a courtyard leads to the main hall, with a Mother Goddess hall and guesthouse to the sides. The main hall combines traditional tiled roofs with a raised roof section in the centre. Inside, the arrangement retains deity worship at the front and Buddhist worship behind; statues, plaques and paired inscriptions reveal its different layers of devotion.

Cultural value

The transition from shrine to Buddhist temple reflects exchanges between religious traditions and the history of the old quarter’s residents. Inscriptions, revolutionary records and community contributions to reconstruction give the temple both religious value and a role in urban memory.

Events & festivals

Phố Cũ Temple’s traditional festival in 2026 took place on 20/3, the 2nd day of the second lunar month, with a welcoming performance programme the preceding evening. It included processions, incense offerings, cultural activities and traditional games. For following years, please follow announcements from the temple and Thục Phán ward.