Ponagar Tower - A cultural landmark of the Cham people.

The Ponagar Tower complex, over 1,200 years old, is located on Cu Lao hill, along the tranquil Cai River.

Nestled on a hilltop, hidden beneath the shade of ancient, lush trees, the Ponagar Tower is a popular destination for tourists exploring the coastal city of Nha Trang.

According to Cham folklore, Queen Ponagar, also known as the Holy Mother Ana, is a goddess created from clouds and sea foam.

This goddess created the earth with trees and rice, bestowed life upon all living things, and taught people how to work and earn a living.

Perhaps that is why this goddess is also called the Mother of the Land. In the Ponagar Tower complex, the Mother of the Land is worshipped in the largest main tower, approximately 23 meters high, along with the four East, West, South, and North towers located at the highest points. Stone steps lead down to a lower level, a wide platform with 22 tower pillars.

There are many theories about the meaning of those towers, but the Cham people believe that they are pillars used to support the sky because this place is the common home of the Cham people.

Like the main towers, the octagonal pillars were constructed of fired bricks using a unique technique of tightly stacking 20cm x 20cm bricks without any binding material.

This is the mystery that researchers have yet to find a convincing explanation for.

Along with the architectural art, the unique sculptural art is also recognized in this temple complex.

With their talent and creativity, Cham artisans have harmoniously and subtly combined architecture and sculpture, showcasing the distinctive values ​​of Cham culture.

Statues and reliefs are placed in various locations, such as on top of the tower, around the tower walls, decorating the interior of the tower, or used for worship. From figures of ordinary people diligently working such as hunting and milling rice to statues of dancers, mythical creatures, and gods, all are meticulously and vividly sculpted.

Most memorable is the statue of the goddess Ponagar, carved from black granite. The goddess Ponagar is depicted seated on a majestic lotus-shaped pedestal, her back resting against a large stone slab shaped like a Bodhi leaf. The statue symbolizes fertility and embodies a vigorous physique.

The Cham "artists" meticulously crafted every detail, from the majestic hands of the goddess to accessories such as necklaces and bracelets. The Ponagar Tower complex, with its temples, towers, and system of statues and reliefs, resembles a vibrant living museum of Cham culture.

Heritage Magazine