Quan De Temple, also known as Ong Pagoda, is one of the important architectural and religious works in Chau Doc City. Built in 1825, the temple has gone through nearly 2 centuries of history, becoming a cultural and spiritual symbol, closely associated with the Chinese community and local residents.
According to Mr. Thai Vi Minh, a member of the Chinese Mutual Aid Association of Chau Doc City, Quan De Temple was originally built by the Minh Huong community, who migrated from China. This was not only a place to worship Quan Cong, a famous general of the Three Kingdoms period, but also a gathering place and connection place for Chinese guilds. Over time, the temple became a place of worship and trust for many people. The history of Quan De Temple is marked by many important renovations. Major renovations took place in 1888 - 1889, 1972 and most recently from 2016 - 2017. Despite many repairs, the original architecture of the temple is still preserved almost intact. "We try to keep the ancient architectural details, from size to patterns, to protect the historical and cultural value of the temple," Mr. Minh added. 
Quan De Temple attracts people with its ancient and majestic beauty. The red tiled roofs, pillars carved with the image of the Eight Immortals' weapons and three large wooden statues of Quan Cong are considered the most unique in the Southwest. The interior space bears a strong Chinese imprint, with symbols: Thanh Long, Bach Ho and the altar of Thien Dia Phu Mau. All create a sacred space, attracting locals and tourists from near and far. Mr. Lam Hiep Thang, a resident living near Quan De Temple, said: "The architecture here is very unique. Every time I visit the temple, I feel peace and relaxation amidst the hustle and bustle of life". Besides its architectural value, Quan De Temple is also closely associated with the religious life of the community. Quan Cong's festival on the 13th day of the 5th lunar month is one of the important events at the temple. Unlike many places, the festival in the city is held in the same day. Chau Doc does not hold the festival on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month, but chooses the 13th day of the 5th lunar month, the anniversary of Quan Binh, Quan Cong's son. According to Mr. Thai Vi Minh, this change comes from the concept of "children do not do things before their fathers", and this day coincides with the anniversary of Duc Gia Lam in Buddhism, creating a meaningful intersection. During the festival, the rituals: bathing the statue, changing clothes and offering offerings are performed solemnly. In addition, the activities of awarding prizes to poor and studious Chinese students also contribute to making the festival more meaningful. Despite its cultural and spiritual value, Quan De Temple is facing difficulties in preservation. Social changes make the younger generation less interested in cultural heritage, while those who have a deep understanding of traditional values are increasingly scarce. However, the Chinese Mutual Aid Association in the city. Chau Doc still strives to preserve and promote the value of the temple, through activities: Organizing festivals, educating the younger generation, renovating the temple... always carried out with the spirit of respecting heritage. Quan De Temple is a unique architectural work, and at the same time a place to preserve cultural and religious values. With a long history and enduring vitality, this place has become a symbol of loyalty and community cohesion. For many people, each time they come to the temple is not only to burn incense, but also to find peace of mind, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/quan-de-mieu-di-san-kien-truc-va-diem-den-tam-linh-a412944.html
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