My Son Sanctuary – The Sacred Legacy of the Champa Kingdom

My Son Sanctuary is located in a narrow valley in Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam Province, surrounded by mountains and lush forests. It was the most important religious center of the ancient Champa Kingdom and reflects the spiritual life and distinctive architectural artistry of the Cham people.

Photo: internet

Construction at My Son began in the 4th century and continued until the 13th century, with the temples primarily dedicated to Shiva, the supreme deity in Hinduism. The towers were built mainly of fired brick and arranged in carefully planned complexes, decorated with elaborate carvings that demonstrate the unique building techniques of the Cham, many of which remain unexplained today.

One of the most remarkable features of My Son is the brick construction method, which involved either no mortar or a special binding substance that allowed the bricks to fit together seamlessly and remain durable for centuries. The stone sculptures and reliefs reflect strong Hindu artistic influences while incorporating distinct local Champa elements.

Photo: internet

Although many structures were severely damaged by war and the passage of time, My Son retains outstanding historical, architectural, and religious value. The sanctuary provides crucial evidence of cultural exchanges between India and Southeast Asia in ancient times.

In 1999, My Son Sanctuary was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Today, it stands as an important archaeological site and a cultural and spiritual symbol of the Cham people, as well as a treasured heritage of Vietnam.

NTT