My Son Sanctuary - A masterpiece of Cham culture

(CLO) My Son Sanctuary is a famous tourist destination in Quang Nam province. This historical and cultural heritage site bears the strong imprint of Cham Pa culture, with its unique temple and palace complex, and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site.

My Son Sanctuary, located in Duy Phu commune, Duy Xuyen district, Quang Nam province, is a heritage site showcasing the architecture of the ancient Champa people. With a diameter of approximately 2km and more than 70 different temples and towers, My Son Sanctuary exhibits many historical architectural features typical of each stage of development of ancient Champa.

According to the explanation, this site dates back to the 4th century, built by the Champa king Bhadresvara, and was once used for worshipping the gods Linga and Shiva. Two centuries later, the temple was destroyed in a major fire. In the 7th century, King Sambhuvarman rebuilt the temples, and these relics still exist today.

My Son Sanctuary, located in Duy Phu commune, Duy Xuyen district, Quang Nam province, is a heritage site featuring the architecture of the ancient Champa people.

The My Son temple complex is nestled deep in a valley surrounded by towering mountains. In the past, My Son was a place where people offered sacrifices and also housed the tombs of the Champa kings of that era.

Quang Nam province, like other provinces in the Central Coastal region, has a tropical monsoon climate. The rainy season lasts from September to December, and the dry season from February to August each year. The ideal time to visit My Son Sanctuary is during the summer, from February to April. During this period, the weather is sunny and dry with little rain, allowing for comfortable travel and exploration of this historical site.

Hoai Anh, a student at the Academy of Journalism and Communication, shared: “My friends and I visited My Son Sanctuary to learn more about the cultural and historical aspects of the ancient Champa people. The architecture here overwhelmed us and truly surprised and intrigued us.”

The My Son Sanctuary was mostly constructed using red fired bricks.

The My Son Sanctuary was heavily influenced by the opulent and magnificent architecture of India, comprising a complex of temples and shrines of the Champa kingdom, surrounded by hills and mountains. Most of the structures were built with red fired bricks. To this day, the techniques used in their construction and bonding remain a great mystery. Furthermore, the ancient Sanskrit inscriptions on the steles also attract the attention of visitors.

The architecture of the My Son Sanctuary is divided into six distinct styles. These include the ancient style, Hoa Lai, My Son, Ponagar, Dong Duong, and Binh Dinh style. A common feature of these architectural styles is the pyramidal spire. This is believed to symbolize Mount Meru – the abode of Hindu gods.

The outer walls of the tower are made from unique S-shaped bricks carved with swirling leaf patterns. Here and there, sandstone statues of Makara, Apsara dancers, lions, the mythical bird Garuda, elephants, etc., are arranged closely together, creating a striking effect that highlights the vibrant spirit of the ancient Cham people.

The My Son Sanctuary is not only a masterpiece of Champa architecture, but also bears the mark of Southeast Asian regional culture, particularly Hinduism.

The My Son Sanctuary is not only a masterpiece of Champa architecture, but also bears the mark of Southeast Asian culture, particularly Hinduism. Over the centuries, the My Son Sanctuary has suffered damage from war and harsh weather. However, thanks to the efforts of the people and local authorities, many of the towers remain intact, serving as proud historical relics of our nation.

Visitors from afar who come to visit the My Son sanctuary can also enjoy the famous Apsara dance, inspired by the sandstone statues. Titled "The Soul of Stone," the dance is smooth and graceful, highlighting the curves of the ancient Champa women.

Today, this dance is often performed in important provincial art programs or for tourist groups visiting the My Son Sanctuary. The lively sounds of the Paranung drums and Saranai flutes will transform visitors into Champa girls in this traditional dance.

“I was fortunate enough to experience the Kate festival while visiting My Son Sanctuary. This place not only boasts unique architecture but also attracts tourists with the special aspects of ancient Cham culture. Visitors are very excited and captivated by the rituals performed here,” said Vu Nhat Khanh, a tourist from Yen Bai.

Visitors from far away who come to visit the My Son sanctuary also have the opportunity to enjoy the famous dance.

Visitors to My Son Sanctuary cannot miss the Katê Festival, one of the largest festivals, held annually in July according to the Cham calendar. Here, visitors can not only explore the unique heritage but also participate in rituals such as prayers for peace, water processions, and processions with ceremonial costumes. In addition, the Katê Festival features many spectacular cultural performances, incorporating traditional props that are captivating. This is both an opportunity for the local people to commemorate their glorious history and a special highlight that attracts both domestic and international tourists.

My Son Sanctuary – once the religious and cultural center of the Champa kingdom – certainly has many more fascinating things waiting for you to discover.

Source: https://congluan.vn/thanh-dia-my-son-tuyet-tac-van-hoa-cham-pa-10227427.html