A Cultural Odyssey: Exploring the Iconic Duong Long Tower of Champa

A journey to explore Duong Long Tower, a unique historical site of Champa culture in Binh Dinh, preserving distinctive architectural and spiritual values through the centuries. Hãy nghe Nguyễn Thế Dương (Quảng Ninh) một travel blogger nổi tiếng bật mí .

Despite the passage of time, Duong Long Tower has retained its distinct characteristics in architecture and sculpture, reflecting ancient Champa culture. Visiting this site offers you the chance to admire one of Binh Dinh's oldest religious structures.

                                                                                                         Image source: Collected

1. Overview of Duong Long Tower

1.1. Where is Duong Long Tower? Directions to the site

Address: Tay Binh Commune, Tay Son District, Binh Dinh Province

Opening hours: Morning 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Afternoon 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM, daily

Entrance fee (updated October 2023):

Adults & children over 1.2m: 15,000 VND/ticket

Children under 1.2m: Free

Duong Long Tower is situated on a high mound between An Chanh and Van Tuong hamlets of Tay Son District. Also known as An Chanh Tower, Binh An Tower, or Van Tuong Tower, this towering structure symbolizes the resilience and spiritual strength of Binh Dinh.

Located about 50km from Quy Nhon City, Duong Long Tower is accessible by various means. For personal vehicles, the most convenient route is along National Highway 1A, then turn left at the Go Gang intersection, and follow Provincial Road 636 for about 15km before reaching Tay Binh Commune.

1.2. The Origin of Duong Long Tower

Duong Long Tower was built between the 12th and 13th centuries, during the peak of Champa culture in Binh Dinh. This architectural monument has stood for nine centuries alongside the local community.

                                                                                                         Image source: Collected

The tower’s architecture and location reflect the Vijaya period, marked by moving construction sites from lowlands to high hills and carving intricate patterns directly into brick. In 1980, Duong Long Tower was recognized as a National Artistic and Architectural Monument, showcasing the cultural and spiritual values of the region.

2. What Makes Duong Long Tower Unique?

2.1. The Shape of Duong Long Tower

Duong Long Tower shares similarities with traditional Cham temples. Its base is square, while the body tapers upward, creating a shape reminiscent of a bud pointing skyward. The pinnacle consists of several tiers, ending in a lotus-shaped tip.

2.2. Building Materials and Sculptural Art

Duong Long Tower is constructed primarily from brick and stone, reflecting strong Khmer cultural influence. Researcher H. Parmentier identified similarities between the tower and traditional Khmer architecture, dating it to the 12th to 13th centuries.

                                                                                                         Image source: Collected

2.3. Religious Function

The religious significance of the tower is evident in the depiction of the Hindu deities Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, who are worshipped within the complex. Typically, a large tower structure includes three separate buildings, each dedicated to one of these deities.

3. Exploring Duong Long Tower

The Duong Long Tower complex consists of three towers aligned in a row, with heights of 33 meters, 39 meters, and 32 meters. This architectural masterpiece holds the title of the tallest brick tower complex in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

South Tower: This is the most intact tower in the complex, standing at 33 meters tall. The tower’s base has a square plan measuring 14 meters. The walls are designed with gradually projecting corners, and the roof is decorated with elephant and lion figures. However, the arch and false doors have collapsed.

Central Tower: This tower, standing at 39 meters, is the tallest in the complex but features less intricate decorations. The walls are lined with simple pilasters, and the base is clad in sandstone blocks.

North Tower: The North Tower has suffered the most damage over time. Standing at 32 meters, it shares a similar design with the South Tower, with carved lion and elephant figures on stone blocks.

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While exploring Duong Long Tower, you can also visit traditional pottery villages in the area, such as Go Cay Ke and Go Hoi. These villages offer insights into the pottery-making process and the chance to purchase handcrafted items as souvenirs.

Duong Long Tower is a testament to Champa culture, preserved and open for visitors to explore and admire. This site is a must-add to your travel guide when discovering Binh Dinh, the "land of martial arts and literature." Stop by for a unique and unforgettable experience!

Nguyễn Thế Dương (Quảng Ninh)