This photo shows one of the ancient portals of the Chùa Chúc Thánh pagoda in Hội An, Vietnam. Worn by time, this sacred passageway consists of three vaulted openings topped by a roof decorated with animal sculptures and overgrown vegetation. The structure is decorated with Chinese characters and religious symbols painted on ochre columns, while stone lions stand guard on either side of the entrance.
The weathered texture of the walls, the moss that covers them in places and the old wooden doors hint at the age of the place and the history it contains. The light filtered through the trees gives the scene a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere. This portal marks not only a physical separation, but also a symbolic transition between the secular world and the spiritual universe of the temple.
This architectural vestige, richly decorated despite the effects of time, illustrates the depth of Vietnam's religious heritage and the fusion between nature, spirituality and tradition. A peaceful scene, full of meaning for those who know how to linger.
Passionate about photography, I travel the world in search of the most beautiful shots.
Currently in Thailand..
Read more…