Dinh Ca: A Symbol of Traditional Culture

In the heart of the midland region, Dinh Ca (Ca Communal House) in Dong Luong Commune has long been a spiritual landmark deeply intertwined with the lives of generations. It is not only a place to worship the Village Guardian Spirit – General Le Huu Thuyen – but also a sanctuary preserving the historical, cultural, and communal values of a land once famed as the heroic Van Thang Guerrilla Zone.

Dinh Ca – A symbol of traditional culture in the heroic Van Thang Guerrilla Zone.

A Historical Legacy of Over Three Centuries

According to historical records from the Institute of Han-Nom Studies, General Le Huu Thuyen was a loyal official during the Post-Le Dynasty. He dedicated his life to serving the King, suppressing rebellions, and ensuring peace for the people. After being severely wounded in a fierce battle, he chose the sacred land of Dong Luong as his final resting place.

To honor his great contributions, local residents built a tomb and a communal house, venerating him as the Village Guardian Spirit. Across various dynasties, he was granted royal titles four times (in 1745, 1767, 1783, and 1792), reflecting the state’s recognition of his role in protecting the nation and its citizens.

The original 18th-century structure followed the traditional “Chu Dinh” (T-shaped) architectural style, consisting of a five-bay ceremonial hall and a two-bay inner sanctuary. The walls were crafted from brick and laterite—materials characteristic of ancient Northern midland architecture. Although the original structure was completely destroyed during the 1960s and 70s due to war and time, the people’s devotion led to its reconstruction in 2020.

The new communal house, spanning over 2,000 square meters, sits under the canopy of a 400-year-old heritage banyan tree. Mr. Dieu Tien Do, Head of the Dinh Ca Monument Management Board, shared: "Restoring Dinh Ca is not just about rebuilding an ancient structure; it is about preserving historical memory, nurturing the tradition of “When drinking water, remember its source,” and strengthening community bonds."

A Spiritual and Cultural Space for the Community

Each year, the people of Dong Luong observe numerous traditional rituals to commemorate the Village Guardian Spirit. The two primary festivals take place on the 1st day of the second lunar month and the 20th day of the tenth lunar month. In addition, several ceremonies tied to the agricultural cycle are held, such as the Peace-Praying Ceremony (20th day of the first lunar month), the Seed-Planting Ceremony (1st day of the sixth lunar month), and the Post-Harvest Ceremony (15th day of the eighth lunar month).

The palanquin procession returning to the communal house.

These rituals carry profound spiritual significance while reflecting a traditional agrarian lifestyle, embodying the people’s aspirations for favorable weather, bountiful harvests, and a peaceful existence.

In the Spring of Binh Ngo 2026, amidst the joyous atmosphere of major national celebrations, the residents of Dong Luong are busily preparing for the Dinh Ca Festival. The festivities commence with solemn palanquin processions and ritual offerings, followed by a series of vibrant cultural, artistic, and sporting activities, such as air volleyball, tug-of-war, Chinese chess, and various folk games.

The rites of procession, sacrifice, and incense offering are more than just expressions of gratitude toward ancestors; they are opportunities for the community to entrust their hopes for a safe and prosperous New Year. The Dinh Ca Festival serves as a vital bridge connecting generations of Dong Luong people. Regardless of where they are or what they do, everyone yearns to return during the festival to offer incense in tribute to their forefathers and reunite with fellow villagers.

Today, Dinh Ca stands not only as a historical monument but also as a cultural icon of solidarity and local pride. Amidst the country’s rapid development, these traditional values continue to be cherished and passed down. From the ancient communal house nestled beneath the century-old banyan tree, the festival drums echo every spring—a poignant reminder to the younger generation of their roots and their responsibility to safeguard this precious cultural heritage.

Dinh Ca is thus more than just a building; it is the soul of the village, a living memory of history, and the pride of the heroic Van Thang Revolutionary Guerrilla Zone.

Hanh Thuy