A dazzling display of reds, golds and greens, this beautiful temple was built in 1653 in honour of a Chinese military officer who fought during the Han Dynasty.
With impressive artwork both inside and out, this 17th Century temple has been through a number of different incarnations and has been rebuilt several times. Thanks to its status as a National Historic and Cultural Site, the temple has been well-preserved and cared for, and today looks very much as it would have hundreds of years ago.The temple is a riot of bright colour and decoration. Constructed from pink stone with a roof laid with green tiles, the dragons, unicorns and mythical creatures that decorate the building’s exterior evoke a real sense of the temple’s magic. Legend has it that Quan Cong was an embodiment of Thanh Long the Blue Dragon, symbolised by the two blue dragons embellishing the doorway of the front hall.The main hall is home to a large statue of the military general, placed next to two statues of his guards. Cong’s military victories and achievements are greatly honoured, and Chinese characters singing his praises can be found throughout the temple. The characters represent quotes and affirmations offered by a number of high profile visitors and royalty.The altar upon which Cong is placed is surrounded by different weapons and military instruments, many of them gifts from Chinese royalty over the years. Don’t miss the sanctuary located behind the main altar, which is home to two life-size statues of Cong’s war horses, or the ornamental pond, home to several large turtles.Quan Cong Temple is open every day and doesn’t charge an admission fee. If you can, visit the temple during the bi-annual Ong Pagoda Festival, when it is flooded with pilgrims paying their respects.
