Authorities and residents of Chieng Chau commune, Mai Chau district, are making efforts to preserve and promote the historical value of a centuries-old gold apple tree (scientifically known as diospyros decandra lour), which has been recognised as a national heritage tree.
The gold apple tree in Mo hamlet, Chieng Chau commune, is regarded as a
"living witness" to the ups and downs of Mai Chau's history.
Located
in Mo Hamlet, the tree has stood through centuries of history, from executions
in legendary battles to massacres under French colonial rule. During wartime,
it provided shelter for guerrilla forces, withstanding heavy bombing and
remaining resilient to this day.
Recognised
as a Vietnamese heritage tree in 2016, it stands as a symbol of resilience and
cultural pride for the local community.
Ha
Thi Yen, Secretary of the Party cell of Mo hamlet, highlighted the recognition
as an important step in preserving cultural identity and passing down
historical awareness to future generations.
Authorities
in Chieng Chau commune have also incorporated the tree into local tourism
development plans.
Ha
Van Tiep, Chairman of the commune People's Committee, noted plans to integrate
the site with other attractions like Lac hamlet and Pieng Kem Cave, aiming to
showcase both the area's natural beauty and historical significance.
The
preservation of the heritage tree is part of broader efforts to maintain
cultural heritage and promote spiritual tourism in the region.
Preserving and promoting the cultural values of the Muong ethnic group has become an urgent task in the current context, as many traditional values face the risk of fading away. This effort requires not only protecting the cultural identity but also eliminating outdated customs and developing a modern cultural lifestyle, contributing to sustainable values for the Muong community in Hoa Binh province.
The Muong ethnic culture, deeply rooted in Vietnam’s mountainous north, continues to be preserved and revitalised by dedicated individuals and communities determined to safeguard their ancestral identity.
The Muong group is one of the largest ethnic minorities in Vietnam, primarily found in Hoa Binh province. The Muong people in Hoa Binh boast a rich and diverse cultural treasure that reflects the unique identity of this ethnic group. Accounting for over 63% of the province's population, they have created and preserved numerous distinctive cultural values, contributing to their unique identity. Their cultural heritage is an invaluable asset, at the heart of their national identity, and represents a vibrant spiritual life that must be preserved and promoted in today’s modern world.
For generations, the ethnic communities of Hoa Binh province, particularly the Muong people, have preserved vibrant festivals deeply intertwined with the region’s geography, nature, and social traditions. These celebrations enrich Hoa Binh’s spiritual life and cultural identity, reflecting both folk beliefs and the intermingling of ethnic customs. Many of these festivals have endured the test of time, passed down through generations and continuing to thrive today. Among them, the Khai Ha (Going Down to the Field) festival stands out as one of the most significant events of the Muong ethnic group.
Muong calendar, known as sach doi, is an ancient folk knowledge system developed through observations of the movement of the pleiades star. This unique calendar consists of 12 bamboo sticks, each representing a lunar month. Specific days within each month are marked with distinct symbols, guiding locals in determining auspicious and inauspicious days for important activities.
Hoa Binh is home to two types of Dong Son drums: Heger I and Heger II. These drums date back from the 4th century BC to the 5th century AD.
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