Full Day Tour From Hue To Cham Tower - An Bang - Tuy Van Mountain - Gheng Lang - Hai Binh Beach

Phu Dien Cham Tower, also known as My Khanh Tower, holds immense historical significance as a ruin of Champa culture, dating back over a thousand years. Discovered accidentally in 2001, it was found buried deep beneath sand and sea level near Hue. Its existence provides valuable insight into the Cham civilization's presence and influence in the Thua Thien Hue region, offering archaeological evidence of their ancient kingdom's reach.

Phu Dien Cham Tower showcases the characteristic brick architecture of the Cham civilization. These towers typically feature a square or rectangular base, tapering upwards with multiple levels, often adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. While Phu Dien was found largely buried, its structure reflects the robust and spiritual design principles common to Cham religious architecture, often dedicated to deities and ancestors.

The Cham people have played a significant role in shaping Vietnam's diverse cultural identity through their rich history, language, and artistic traditions. Descendants of the ancient Champa kingdom, their influence is evident in archaeological sites like Cham Towers, traditional music, dance, and weaving. They represent a distinct ethnic minority, contributing to the multicultural tapestry of Vietnam, particularly in the central and southern regions.

Cham Towers are primarily distributed across the central and southern coastal regions of Vietnam, reflecting the historical territory of the Champa kingdom. Significant clusters can be found in provinces like Quang Nam (My Son Sanctuary), Binh Dinh, Khanh Hoa (Ponagar), and Thua Thien Hue (Phu Dien). This distribution signifies the powerful reach and cultural dominance of the Cham civilization over centuries, marking their spiritual and political centers along ancient trade routes.

An Bang Village, often referred to as the "City of Ghosts," is unique for its exceptionally ornate and majestic cemeteries. Unlike typical graveyards, the tombs here are lavishly constructed, some resembling temples or palaces, showcasing a distinctive blend of Vietnamese, Buddhist, Taoist, and even Christian architectural styles. It offers a fascinating, albeit solemn, insight into local beliefs, wealth, and unique funeral traditions.

Thanh Duyen Pagoda is a notable stop due to its serene location and historical significance as an ancient temple situated amidst the river. Its tranquil environment provides a peaceful contrast to other bustling sites. As an active place of worship, it offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnamese Buddhist practices and architecture, reflecting the spiritual landscape of the region surrounding Hue.

The accidental discovery of Phu Dien Cham Tower in 2001 was significant because the tower itself was the primary archaeological finding, found buried 5-7 meters deep in sand and 3-4 meters below sea level. Its structure, along with remnants of surrounding materials, provided crucial evidence of a previously unknown or long-lost Cham site. This discovery helped reconstruct the historical geography of the Champa kingdom in the Hue area.

Cham Towers like Phu Dien primarily served as Hindu temples and spiritual sanctuaries for the ancient Cham civilization. They were often dedicated to various Hindu deities such as Shiva, Vishnu, or Brahma, as well as to royal ancestors. These towers were central to religious rituals, ceremonies, and prayers, symbolizing the connection between the earthly realm and the divine, and were considered sacred spaces for the Cham people.