HCM CITY – The administration in the central central city of Hội An has opened a temple complex first built in 1626 to the public for visits in early December.

The Tam Quan Gate, or three-entrance gate, is part of a complex known by locals as Bà Mụ (Midwife) Temple on the city’s Hai Bà Trưng Street in Hội An City.

Tam Quan Gate is an entrance gate with classical Vietnamnese style of architecture often seen in front of pagodas and temples.

The temple complex was built in 1626 at a different location in feudal Việt Nam and then moved to the present position.

Major restorations were done in 1848 and 1922 to the structure, which was once considered one of the most beautiful in Hoi An.

The local government spent over VND5.3 billion (US$228,000) on restoring the gate and landscaping the complex, which now has electric lighting, a pool, flower beds arranged in patterns, and paths for strolls flanked by lawns.

The gate was restored to its original beauty with elaborate designs. – VNS