Located 40km northwest of Hanoi’s centre, Tay Phuong Pagoda, which was built around the eighth century, is the second oldest pagoda in Vietnam after Dau Pagoda in the northern province of Bac Ninh.
The pagoda, which is well known for its original architecture and unique Buddhist sculptures including carvings and statues, has been recognised as a national tourist attraction since 2022.
Among more than 70 Buddha and Arhats statues that have been recognised as national treasures, 18 Arhats date back nearly 300 years.
The national special historical site has suffered from severe degradation over time and is at risk of collapse, which could damage the centuries-old statues inside.
Local authorities have taken some measures to restore roofs, the walls and protect the statues but it seems inadequate.
Last month, Deputy PM Tran Hong Ha signed a new decision to urgently preserve and restore Tay Phuong Pagoda.
