A spiritual symbol of the land of learning.

If you have the opportunity to visit Hoi An ancient town, besides the moss-covered, ancient houses, tourists should not miss a unique architectural work that is rich in historical and spiritual value: the Quang Nam Memorial Monument.

The Quang Nam Memorial, a symbol of the "heroic and courageous spirit of Quang Nam," is a place where the essence and pride of the people of Quang Nam converge. (Image source: Alamy)

Located on Tran Hung Dao Street (formerly Phan Dinh Phung Street before 1975), opposite the Confucius Temple, this structure has long been a symbol of the heroic spirit of Quang Nam, a place where the essence and pride of the people of Quang Nam converge.

A unique architectural masterpiece in the heart of Hoi An.

Construction began in 1962 on what was once a swampy area, and the memorial stands as a colossal stone pillar rising high amidst the tranquil suburban landscape. Although relatively young, thanks to sophisticated architectural techniques and the skillful combination of Marble from Ngu Hanh Son Mountain and cement, the structure retains an ancient and majestic appearance.

The entire monument is situated within a large, walled compound. At its center is a lotus pond spanning over 500 square meters, connected to the front courtyard by a 15-meter-long arched bridge. The monument itself is built in a tower shape, approximately 8 meters high from base to roof, with two tiers of tiled roofs in the style of a three-arched gateway.

The most distinctive feature of the architecture lies in the base of the monument. On all four sides of the base are sculpted models of typical scenic spots of the province: Marble Mountains (a famous scenic spot), Hai Van Pass (the most magnificent pass), Cham Island (a valuable source of swallow's nests), and Nong Son coal mine (an important mineral resource). At the four corners, the images of four white dragons with their necks raised create an awe-inspiring and protective atmosphere for the spirits of the ancestors.

The harmony between heaven and earth is further expressed through the details of the entrance gate, featuring the Qian and Kun trigrams from the Eight Trigrams. According to learned scholars, this symbolizes the idea that when heroes fall, their bodies return to dust, but their noble spirit and integrity transcend, returning to eternity and the clarity of heaven and earth.

A place where excellence and gratitude converge.

The memorial monument is not only a work of art but also a "golden plaque" commemorating the most outstanding sons and daughters of Quang Nam province. Right on the front of the monument are the following Chinese characters in marble: 廣 南 名 人 志 士 紀 念 臺 “Quang Nam Famous People and Patriots Memorial Monument” (Memorial Monument to Famous People and Patriots of Quang Nam).

This is a place of worship and remembrance for 14 distinguished figures and patriots who brought glory to the land of "Five Phoenixes Soaring Together," such as: Hoang Dieu, Phan Chau Trinh, Huynh Thuc Khang, Tran Quy Cap, Thai Phien, Tran Cao Van, Nguyen Duy Hieu, Thoai Ngoc Hau... They were pioneers from Confucian schools, possessing unwavering integrity, viewing death as light as a feather for the greater good of the nation.

That spirit is encapsulated in the meaningful couplets inscribed on the pillars: “For the nation, upholding moral principles, a single-minded devotion illuminates the sun and moon / Competing with Heaven for destiny, a great legacy shared with the mountains and rivers for a thousand years.”

Vitality in local cultural life

Before 1975, the memorial monument had become an integral part of the spiritual life and daily activities of the people of Quang Nam. It was once a place where provincial governors would report their arrival and departure upon taking office, as a way of showing respect to their ancestors and their goodwill in serving the local people.

For students preparing for exams, the Memorial Monument is a sacred destination during each exam season. Hundreds of candidates often gather here to study, hoping to receive guidance and encouragement from renowned masters and predecessors to achieve high results in their studies.

But that's not all; the structure is also a poetic community space. Tourists and locals often come here to rest on the white stone benches, admire the lotus pond, and take記念 photos next to the models of famous landmarks. Photographers also find unique angles here, capturing the beauty of the dragon figures, swirling clouds, and ancient tower architecture.

The story of "one tombstone, two memories"

In the article "Commemorating the Quang Nam Monument" by author Dang Ngoc Cu, also known as Truc Son, published in the Viet Tan newspaper on August 29, 1968, an interesting anecdote associated with this monument is the story of the white stone stele of Ngu Hanh Son. Initially (in 1962), the stele was erected to commemorate Governor-General Ngo Dinh Khoi. However, after the political upheaval of 1963, the stele was dismantled.

In 1966, Professor Nguyen Huu Chi repurposed this stele to create the "Five Phoenixes Flying Together" symbol (representing five phoenixes soaring in the clouds) – a symbol of the five top scholars from Quang Nam who passed the same imperial examination. This transformation not only held artistic significance but was also praised by the people for honoring the true academic values ​​and traditions of the region.

The Quang Nam Memorial Monument stands today as a historical witness, reminding future generations of the exemplary heroes who sacrificed their lives. Visiting this place, we not only admire the beautiful architecture but also allow our hearts to settle, paying tribute to the souls who have become one with this beautiful land. This is the most powerful testament to the saying: "Though the ancestors are gone, seeing this high monument with its stone inscription, we will remember them forever."

Source: https://baodanang.vn/bieu-tuong-tinh-than-cua-vung-dat-hoc-3322544.html