Thiên Trường

Thiên Trường was the homeland of the Trần dynasty in the southern Red River delta. The village of Tức Mặc grew into a royal centre on the right bank of the river, surrounded by the waterways and fields of the low plain. Its palaces and Buddhist foundations made it a distinguished residence of the dynasty alongside the capital at Thăng Long.

In 1239 Trần Thái Tông ordered buildings and palaces constructed at Tức Mặc. After yielding the throne to his son, he renamed the place Thiên Trường in 1262. The retired emperor resided at Trùng Quang Palace, while Trùng Hoa Palace received the reigning king when he came from the capital. Phổ Minh temple stood west of the palace, and officials were appointed to oversee the two royal residences.

The later city of Nam Định lies here.