Đức Hoàng Temple (Nghệ An): From Historical Memory to Heritagization and a Resource for Cultural Industry Development

Abstract

This article examines the transformation of historical memory into cultural heritage at Đức Hoàng Temple, Đô Lương, Nghệ An, Vietnam, a historical-cultural relic associated with King Lê Trang Tông and the restoration of the Later Lê dynasty in the sixteenth century. The study adopts a qualitative case-study design and an interdisciplinary approach combining history, ethnology, religious studies, cultural studies, and heritage studies. The research draws on official historical chronicles, Hán-Nôm texts, hagiographies, scholarly studies, relic dossiers, management documents, official local materials, and mainstream media sources, which are comparatively analyzed and cross-checked to clarify the relationship between official history, local memory, community practices, and the heritagization process. The findings show that the transformation of historical memory into living heritage is sustained through three interrelated mechanisms: the sacralization of King Lê Trang Tông as a locally worshipped historical figure, the ritualization of memory through worship, festivals and community practices, and the institutionalization of conservation and heritage-value promotion. The study further indicates that digital transformation is expanding the modes through which the heritage is preserved, communicated, and accessed, while the physical sacred space and the local community remain central to its authenticity and vitality. On that basis, the article proposes a community-centered approach to conserving and promoting Đức Hoàng Temple, in which historical memory, sacred values, digital communication, education, cultural tourism, and cultural-industry development are integrated while maintaining historical authenticity and respecting the community’s role as the principal subject of heritage preservation and transmission.