Photo book of Vietnamese pagodas rolled out in HCM City hinh anh 1A photo on the book capturing the Thien Mu pagoda in Hue (Source: “Vietnam Pagodas” by Nicolas Cornet)

HCM City (VNA) – More than 30 pagodas across the nation are featured in a photo book “Vietnam Pagodas” by French photographer and reporter Nicolas Cornet, which was launched in Ho Chi Minh City on June 1.

Architecture of Vietnamese pagodas in the northern, central and southern regions, which is not popular among Vietnamese and foreign friends, is nudged closer to readers through the 250-page book, which is both in English and French.

Across five chapters, the author offers a broad and varied vision of traditional pagoda architecture. He also captured daily life in the sacred places to complete the photographic narration and demonstrate his attachment to the people and culture of Vietnam.

Cornet worked for newspapers and magazines such as L’esporesso, Mare, Le Monde, D-La Repubblica, and Siette Leguas.

He has travelled to Vietnam over the past 30 years and been interested in Vietnam’s culture, history and architecture.

Regarding his upcoming projects, he said that he wants to discover Vietnamese cuisine and hopes to complete a photo book introducing Vietnamese typical dishes.

On the occasion, he organised a photo exhibition “Vietnam Pagodas - Legacy of Faith” at the Fine Arts Museum of Ho Chi Minh City. Visitors to the event have chance to enjoy 50 photos of Vietnamese pagodas.

The exhibition runs until June 10.-VNA
VNA