Discovering the Ancient Marvels: My Son Sanctuary in Quang Nam

Discovering the Ancient Marvels: My Son Sanctuary in Quang Nam

My Son Sanctuary is a complex of Cham Pa temple relics in Duy Phu commune, Duy Xuyen district, Quang Nam province. 45 km west of hoi an city  , 68 km southwest of Da Nang city. This area has a diameter of about 2 km with more than 70 different temples and towers with many historical architectural features typical of each stage of development of ancient Cham Pa.

1. History: 

King Bhadravarman began the My Son Sanctuary project in the fourth century, which was finished by the end of the thirteenth century. During the reign of King Jaya Simhavarman III in the early 14th century, My Son was an architectural complex with over 70 temples with unique Champa architectural designs and patterns. The majority of the building here is influenced by Hindu culture.

After the war, My Son remained with just 32 structures, including 20 temples and towers that still preserve their original designs. On December 1, 1999, UNESCO recognized My Son Sanctuary as a World Cultural Heritage site.

2. Some charming spots for sightseeing

• Kalan Temple Kalan Temple is a place to worship Linga, also known as Shiva, Hinduism's greatest god. Kalan Temple stands 24m tall and is encircled by six auxiliary towers, including one of the main ancient towers of the My Son Sanctuary tourist relic. 
• Gate Tower, also known as Gopura Tower, is positioned in front of Kalan Tower. The Gopura tower is distinguished by two connecting openings facing east and west. Looking out from this tower, you can easily see the sunset, which is really beautiful and amazing.
• Mandapa Tower This tower has a recognizable and unique construction, resembling a long home with a gate tower. It was chosen as an area for welcoming pilgrims and making offerings. When you visit Mandapa Tower, you will be struck by the delicate and outstanding handcrafted carvings of the ancients, as well as the skillfully carved patterns on the tower gate. 

3. 8-meter Ancient Road  

During the process of repairing the towers, an expert unexpectedly revealed a unique way. This path is concealed underground, up to 8 meters wide, and bordered by two parallel walls, each around 1 meter deep. The unique feature is that this route is solely for the royal family to use. The road's surface is made of exotic materials like terracotta and adhesive additives, resulting in an outstanding and special area.

4. Experience the Apsara dance

It includes an Apsara dance that was influenced by the Apsara sculptures made of sandstone. This dance, named "Soul of Stone" in appreciation of women's supple curves, is regarded as fluid and graceful.

Currently, this dance is performed for both groups of tourists visiting the My Son Sanctuary and for significant art programs in the province of Quang Nam. With the image of girls with oblong bamboo shoot fingers, you will feel as though you are in the ancient realm of Cham Pa. Her large breasts and sensual curves in colorful, shimmering clothes combined with the sounds of Saranai whistles and Paranung drums enchant visitors.

5. Kate Festival-Traditional Cham Festival

Kate Festival-a unique traditional festival of Cham people. A traditional festival extremely important and sacred for the Cham people. Taking place in the 7th month of every year according to the Cham calendar, this festival has the meaning of remembering ancestors, grandparents and wishing for the proliferation of all species.

At the same time, Kate festival is also a symbol of unity and mutual solidarity in the Cham community. Participating in this festival, visitors will have the opportunity to experience and discover the unique traditional rituals of the Cham people, such as prayer for an, water procession, and many other activities.