Timeless Heritage: Exploring a 300-Year-Old Ancient House in Duong Lam Village

Nestled on the outskirts of Hanoi, Duong Lam Ancient Village stands as a living museum of Northern Vietnamese rural life. Among its many treasures, the 300-year-old house owned by writer Ha Nguyen Huyen is a standout example of traditional architecture and cultural preservation. Built in 1746, this historic residence is classified as a 'Grade One' ancient house, attracting history buffs and architecture enthusiasts from around the world. The house is a masterclass in the use of local materials, featuring sturdy walls made of laterite (da ong) and a structural frame primarily crafted from seasoned jackfruit and chinaberry (xoan) wood.

The architectural layout follows the 'Noi Tu Ngoai Khach' principle, meaning the inner space is dedicated to ancestral worship while the outer areas are designed for receiving guests. Spanning 400 square meters, the property includes a central five-compartment house and a spacious 100-square-meter courtyard. Mr. Huyen explains that the wood used in the construction was soaked in mud for years before being dried and used, a traditional technique that prevents termites and ensures the structure remains cool in the summer and warm in the winter. During various restoration efforts, the family has been careful to replace only what is absolutely necessary, ensuring that the original soul of the 18th-century design remains intact.

Inside, the house is a treasure trove of family heirlooms. From antique oil lamps and ceramic tea sets to traditional smoking pipes (dieu bat), every object tells a story of generations past. The courtyard, once home to a functional laterite well, is now used to maintain the family's traditional soy sauce-making business. While the house has been updated with modern conveniences like air conditioning and refrigerators to suit contemporary living, these items are cleverly concealed to maintain the historical ambiance for visitors. This dedication to heritage has not gone unnoticed; Duong Lam recently received the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award in 2024 for its efforts in preserving traditional culinary experiences and rural culture.

Visitors to the Huyen family home can immerse themselves in the authentic atmosphere of the Doai region. The village is famous for its hospitality and traditional delicacies such as 'thit quay don' (roasted pork) and various local candies. As a writer and calligrapher, Mr. Huyen and his artist wife take great pride in sharing the history of the Ha lineage—one of the village's most prominent families known for its scholarly tradition. A visit to this 300-year-old home is more than just a tour; it is a journey back in time, offering a rare glimpse into the enduring spirit of Vietnamese heritage.

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