My Son Holy land  -  A World Cultural Heritage

One of the most stunning sights in the Hoian area, Vietnam’s most important Cham site. My Son Site is in the verdant valley surrounded by hills and overlooked by massive Cat’s Tooth Mountain (Hon Quap). Clear brooks (perfect for a dip) run between the structures and past nearby coffee plantations.

Located approximately 55km west of Hoian. In My Son, there are several temples, among which is the largest temple of the Champa Kingdom, and more than 70 structures of different architectural styles. They were built of brick and stone between the 7^th and the 13^th centuries. My Son has been compared with other famous sites of Southeast Asia such as Angkor (Cambodia), Bagan (Myanmar), Ayuthaya (Thailand) and Borobudur (Java).

Only 10km from My Son, on the way back to Hoian, is Tra Kieu Citadel, a ancient capital of the Champa King dom. Unfortunately, Tra Kieu Citadel, also called Citadel of the Lion, has been heavily damaged by the effects of time. According to Thuy Kinh Chu (15^th century), the system of outer walls, moats and bastions was built with Chinese martial techniques. Imposing temples were dedicated to the Spirits.