A requiem in tribute to soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect the nation was held in the northern province of Hai Duong on September 22 as part of the Con Son – Kiep Bac Autumn Festival.

Those in attendance at the ceremony remembered fallen Vietnamese soldiers from throughout history, including those who served during the Tran dynasty and fought against the Yuan–Mongol invaders from the north in the 13th and 14th centuries.

They also prayed for national peace and prosperity for all people.

Following the somber ceremony, thousands of colorful flower-shaped lanterns were released along the Luc Dau River.

The event concluded by wowing the crowds with a vibrant firework display.

Earlier on the same day, a provincial-scale rowing tournament took place at the Kiep Bac Temple Lake to celebrate the festival. It drew the participation of more than 120 male and female rowers from six teams in the province.

Covering an area of more than 8 ha in Chi Linh town, the Con Son – Kiep Bac historical site is closely associated with the lives and careers of national heroes Tran Hung Dao (1228-1300), who led Vietnamese troops to repel three major Mongolian invasions in the 13th century, and Nguyen Trai (1380-1442), who was recognised as a Great Man of Culture of the World.

It was recognised as a national heritage site in 1962 and a special national heritage site in 2012.

The Con Son – Kiep Bac spring and autumn festivals have been recognised as national intangible cultural heritage.-VNA