Phuoc Tich ancient village in the central province of Thua Thien Hue’s Phong Dien District has been recognised as a national art architecture relic by the State.

The village, established in the 15th century during the early part of the Le Dynasty, was known as Dong Quyet.

This was later changed to Phuoc Giang and Hoang Giang before it took its present name under the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 to 1945).

Special architectural and cultural values remain in the village, which has more than 20 houses built more than a century ago.

There are also relics like communal houses, pagodas, temples, clans’ altar houses, Champa culture relics, village wells, remains of a pottery kiln and century-old trees and gardens.

The village’s ancient houses are also known as nha ruong, which is a kind of residence built with artfully carved wooden pillars and bars. They are held together with wooden pegs so they can be easily dismantled.

The houses are invariably made of good quality and a long-lasting wood. They are usually surrounded by a garden designed to feng-shui principles.

A house is considered to combine the main features of durability, comfort and harmony.

Hanoi’s Duong Lam Village was earlier recognised as a national art architecture relic. (VNA)