Among Vietnam’s 29 recently-recognized national treasures is a set of stone dragons at the Co Loa Special National Relic Site in Dong Anh district, Hanoi. Join us to learn more about the treasure.
The set of stone dragons is part of the staircase positioned at the front of Co Loa Temple, which is also known as Thuong Temple. Dated to 1732, they are dedicated to Emperor An Duong Vuong, who ruled the country in the 3rd century BC.
According to the Management Board of the Co Loa Relics Site, the dragons were carved from a single block of stone, with their heads held high, mouths wide open, and claws grasping pearls.
The pair of stone dragons exhibit the unique patterns and distinct characteristics of sculptural art from the early 18th century.
The size, structure, and decorative patterns on the dragons are unparalleled in other monuments around Vietnam of the same age and purpose.
The stone dragons in Thuong Temple symbolise the harmonious energy of heaven and earth, and represent the power of Emperor An Duong Vuong./.
