The magnificent and beautiful Ben Duoc Temple was built to commemorate the many martyrs who gave their lives for their country during its long period of political turmoil, starting from the rebellion against French colonisation and culminating with the Vietnam War. Each aspect of the temple is filled with symbolism, from the main gate built in the traditional Vietnamese style to the statue in the Flower Garden, expressed in the shape of a teardrop, which represents the holy soul of the country and the many tears shed over its painful history.

Its most spectacular room is the main temple, with the names of the country’s various martyrs – soldiers and civilians alike – carved on the wall and painted in gold. The basement of the main hall contains 9 separate rooms that narrate the recent history of Vietnam, allowing visitors to understand the reasons behind these thousands of deaths. Outside the temple lies the tranquil garden, which is filled with flowers and bonsai, bursting with colour and life. This garden was built on land that was once burnt and bombed, telling an inspiring story of recovering from tragedy. A fitting tribute for the numerous Vietnamese who laid down their lives for their nation, visiting the Ben Duoc Temple is a must for those especially interested in learning about Vietnam’s wartime stories.