Stepping back in time to visit Bich La Ancient Village - Quang Tri

Bich La was established around the years 1526-1527, boasting a rich history of over five centuries. This is the birthplace of many talented individuals for the country, from doctors of philosophy under the Nguyen Dynasty such as Le Thuy, Le Huu Thuong, and Le Mau Cuc, to prominent figures like General Secretary Le Duan – an outstanding son of the homeland. The Le Ba clan alone produced up to 7 doctorate holders, a vivid testament to the land's tradition of studiousness and academic excellence.

Stepping into Bich La, you will feel the serene atmosphere of an ancient village, where narrow stone-paved paths, mossy communal house roofs, and oral legends still echo. The village is not only a preserver of history but also a witness to the two resistance wars against the French and the Americans, marked by crucial strongholds and the unyielding spirit of its people.

Every year, on the night of the 2nd and early morning of the 3rd day of Tet, the Bich La communal house market festival becomes a hotspot attracting thousands of visitors from near and far. This is not merely an early-year market but also a rich folk cultural festival, where ancient values are vividly recreated. Traditional games such as Bai Choi (card playing on stilts), poetry recitations, Ba Trao singing, responsive chanting, and calligraphy writing offer visitors the feeling of reliving the atmosphere of past centuries.

Visiting the communal house market, you will encounter carrying poles filled with homegrown fruits, vegetables, betel nuts, fish, and meat, along with the genuine smiles of locals and vibrant New Year wishes. The market is not just a trading place but an occasion for people to bond, praying for favorable weather and a bumper harvest in the New Year. For those far from home, Bich La communal house market is a place to return, to rediscover childhood memories, and to feel the warmth of home.

Surrounding Bich La Ancient Village are sacred religious architectural structures, from the main communal house to small shrines, creating a special spiritual realm. Bich La Dong Communal House, with its gate inscribed with the couplet: "Thế xuất anh tài diễn ức niên", stands as a symbol of longevity and the legendary spirit of this land. On occasions of ancestor worship or grave-tending rituals, the people of Bich La gather to pray for national peace and prosperity, commemorating the pioneers who reclaimed and settled the land.

That sacred space is not only a place for locals to express their faith but also a highlight attracting visitors. Standing in front of the communal house, under the shadow of the ancient banyan tree, you will feel a sense of stillness and depth, as if time is standing still, guiding you back to traditional values that have faded in many other places.

Today, Bich La is not only an ancient village but also a prominent cultural tourism destination in Quang Tri. With over 50 students attending universities nationwide and 12-15 passing university entrance exams every year, Bich La continues to affirm its tradition of studiousness. The people here, though simple and closely tied to their rice fields, always carry a sense of pride in their homeland and aspirations to reach far.

Coming to Bich La, you will not only admire the beauty of an ancient village but also hear stories about the history, culture, and people of Quang Tri. From real-scene art performances reenacting the life of General Secretary Le Duan to colorful communal house market sessions, everything offers visitors unforgettable experiences.

Bich La Ancient Village is not merely a travel destination, but a place to return to roots, to feel the breath of Vietnamese history and culture. Under the shade of village bamboos, beside the tranquil river, Bich La tells stories of a heroic past, of resilient people, and of a homeland filled with warmth and affection. Visit Bich La at least once to let your heart touch enduring values, ensuring that memories of Quang Tri remain forever etched in your soul.