Central Vietnam, Vietnam
Visitors walk among the remaining structures, feeling the weight of history and the peace of the surrounding nature. The sanctuary presents a compelling story of devotion, conflict, and the enduring power of human creation. It invites contemplation, offering a quiet escape from the bustle of modern life. You will find a distinct sense of wonder as you explore these ancient grounds.
My Son is an UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its cultural importance and historical value. It represents an important chapter in the history of Southeast Asia.
The site presents a compelling story of devotion, conflict, and the enduring power of human creation, providing a direct link to the Cham Kingdom's past.
My Son Sanctuary rests in a secluded valley, about 40 kilometers southwest of Hoi An and 70 kilometers southwest of Da Nang. The valley, part of the larger Trường Sơn mountain range, offered natural protection, making it an ideal location for a religious and political center. Lush, green mountains surround the site, creating a dramatic backdrop for the ancient brick towers.
The Thu Bon River, a major waterway in Central Vietnam, flows near the sanctuary, connecting it historically to the ancient port city of Hoi An. This river served as a transportation route for the Cham people, facilitating trade and cultural exchange with other kingdoms. The blend of ancient ruins with a natural, jungle-like setting creates an unique atmosphere. Birds chirp in the trees, and the air carries the scent of damp earth and old stone.
Distinct wet and dry seasons shape the landscape. During dry months, the air is clear, and the sun highlights intricate details.
The valley’s topography also influences local weather patterns.
Travel to My Son often passes through rice paddies and small villages, offering a look at rural Vietnamese life.
The drive transitions from bustling towns to a tranquil, ancient setting.
The isolated nature of the valley contributed to the preservation of the ruins, sheltering them from wider changes.
The blend of ancient ruins with a natural, jungle-like setting creates an unique atmosphere. Birds chirp in the trees, and the air carries the scent of damp earth and old stone.
The Thu Bon River historically connected My Son to the ancient port city of Hoi An, a route for trade and cultural exchange.
The valley’s natural protection made it an ideal site for the religious and political center of the Cham Kingdom.
The journey to My Son often passes through rice paddies and small villages, offering a look at rural Vietnamese life.
My Son Sanctuary served as the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom for nearly a millennium, from the 4th to the 13th centuries. Their temples at My Son were mainly dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, often worshipped in the form of a lingam.
Construction at My Son began in the late 4th century under King Bhadravarman I. Over the centuries, successive Cham kings continued to build and restore temples, each adding structures in the architectural style prevalent during their reign.
The site represents an important chapter in Southeast Asian history, showing the spread of Indian religions and cultural influences.
My Son was mainly dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva and served as a royal burial ground and ceremonial center.
The sanctuary functioned as the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom for nearly a millennium.
The Cham Kingdom maintained complex relationships with neighbors. Despite challenges, Cham culture thrived, developing its distinct writing system, art forms, and religious traditions.
Secluded valley in Duy Phu, Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam Province. About 40 km from Hoi An, 70 km from Da Nang.
Active from the 4th to 13th centuries, the religious and political capital of the Cham Kingdom.
Over 70 Hindu temples and structures, mainly dedicated to Shiva, built from brick and stone. Architectural styles vary.
The site displays the evolution of Cham artistry and religious practices over centuries.
Studies continue on Cham construction techniques, like the special resin used to bind bricks, which remains somewhat a mystery.
Walking among the ruins, one feels the echoes of centuries of rituals, prayers, and royal ceremonies.
