Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City are restoring a pagoda dating back over 200 years, as it has been seriously degraded over years, with over US$2 million allocated for the work.
The restoration work is being carried out at Giac Vien Pagoda, situated at 161/35/20 Lac Long Quan Street, District 11.
The 200-year-old structure is restored at an estimated cost of more than VND51 billion ($2.2 million).
The restoration, approved by the municipal People’s Committee, started on Thursday and is expected to be completed next year.
In November 1993, the pagoda was recognized as a national architectural heritage site thanks to its folk style with many sophisticated antiques which reflect the Vietnamese wood carving art in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Giac Vien also has more than 150 ancient statues of valuable cultural and artistic characteristics.
In the next five years, Ho Chi Minh City authorities will invest around VND300 billion ($13 million) in restoring 11 other cultural, historical monuments, the local Department of Culture and Sports said Friday on its website.
Part of Giac Vien Pagoda is so degraded that the management board has put up a sign that reads, “At risk of collapse. Keep away." Photo: Tuoi Tre
A deteriorating corridor at Giac Vien Pagoda which has been restored since September 8, 2016. Photo: Tuoi Tre
The main hall of Giac Vien Pagoda in District 11, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Tuoi Tre
A moss-covered column of Giac Vien Pagoda in District 11, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Tuoi Tre
The kitchen of Giac Vien Pagoda started becoming degraded five years ago. Photo: Tuoi Tre
The roof tiles have been seriously damaged over time. Photo: Tuoi Tre
Broken tiles are seen at Giac Vien Pagoda in District 11, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Tuoi Tre
Empty rooms with broken doors are temporarily shielded with planks. Photo: Tuoi Tre
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