Vietnam: Worshippers at the Bach Ma (White Horse) temple, Old Hanoi

Bach Ma (White Horse) temple is the oldest religious building in the Thirty-Six Streets (Old Quarter) of Hanoi – and dates, in its original form, from the foundation of old Thang Long in the 11th century.

According to legend, when Ly Thai To re-established the capital in 1010, the refurbished city walls kept falling down until a magical white horse appeared and indicated where new fortifications should be built. In reverence and gratitude, Ly Thai To established Bach Ma Temple, and the white horse became a guardian spirit for the capital.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia