Go Cong is renowned for its rich historical architecture and cultural heritage. It features well-preserved ancient houses blending Western and Central Vietnamese architectural styles
Go Cong town, nestled in Tien Giang Province, Vietnam, may be small in size but boasts an array of remarkable architectural treasures. The tranquil charm of its old French-style houses blends harmoniously with modern structures, breathing new life into this region. Travel to Go Cong for a serene experience amidst its slow-paced lifestyle.
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Go Cong enjoys a favorable climate year-round, making it accessible for visitors during any season. From Ho Chi Minh City, travel is now streamlined without the wait for the My Loi ferry or the detour via National Highway 1 - HCMC Expressway - Trung Luong over 75 kilometers. Since August 2015, the My Loi Bridge linking Long An and Tien Giang has facilitated road travel from HCMC to Go Cong.
Upon arrival, you encounter Go Cong town, a charming, peaceful, and enchanting ancient urban area. Strolling through its streets feels like stepping into a miniature "old town" nestled somewhere in the heart of Europe.
According to historical records, Go Cong was once the name of a province in the southwestern part of Vietnam, now comprising Go Cong Dong district, Go Cong town, and Go Cong Tay district within Tien Giang province. It is an early-settled region in Southern Vietnam. Go Cong town serves as the provincial center, a bustling urban area characterized by its unique ancient architecture. Go Cong is also renowned for nurturing many talented women, including Queen Mother Tu Du and Queen Nam Phuong.
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The architecture here blends Western influences with Central Vietnamese traditional houses, often featuring three compartments, two lean-tos, and yin-yang tiled roofs, expansive and grand. Interestingly, most of Go Cong's villas and ancient houses are constructed using clay mixed with mortar and without the use of concrete or steel reinforcement. Another distinctive cultural aspect of Go Cong town is the meticulous preservation of its historical relics.
One of the well-known historical houses in Go Cong town is the residence of Governor Nguyen Van Hai at 9 Hai Ba Trung Street, built in 1860. Initially the home of Mrs. Tran Thi Sanh (wife of national hero Truong Dinh), it was later handed down to her descendants. Through numerous renovations, the structure retains its immense historical value, considered one of the most beautiful in the Southern region.
The Governor's House is adorned with exquisite wood carvings, comprising over 100 frames, depicting themes from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Antique-style furniture such as cabinets, tables, and chairs, intricately carved from precious woods or inlaid with mother-of-pearl and jade, adds to its cultural significance. In 1994, the Governor's House was nationally recognized as a historic-cultural relic by the Ministry of Culture and Information, attracting filmmakers and photographers seeking glimpses of a bygone era.
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Adjacent to Nguyen Van Con Street is the majestic Governor's Palace, also known as Chanh Tham Bien Go Cong, built by the French in 1885. Over a century later, the structure has ceased its functions but remains preserved by authorities, ensuring its enduring beauty. Travelers to Go Cong not only marvel at its ancient architecture but also capture unforgettable photographs.
Every visitor to Go Cong is awestruck by its rich historical past. Walking along chessboard-like streets, encountering street vendors, visiting a traditional barber shop in an ancient house, or attending a sermon by the parish priest at Sacred Heart Church—all evoke the serene daily life of its residents.
Go Cong town is also home to the Tomb of National Hero Truong Dinh and the Royal Tomb, cherished destinations steeped in historical significance. Truong Dinh was a prominent figure during the resistance against French colonization. Many visitors pay homage at Truong Dinh's shrine, lighting incense to commemorate his contributions and hearing stories of his love for the nation. The shrine holds numerous historical artifacts, resonating with spiritual sanctity.
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The Royal Tomb, situated atop Son Quy Hill in Long Hung hamlet, Go Cong town, covers nearly 3,000 square meters and was built over several years by the Pham family, long-standing residents of Go Cong. Pham Dang Khoa, the family patriarch, began his legacy in this region, later succeeded by Pham Dang Hung and subsequent generations. Due to his relation as the grandfather of King Tu Duc and father of Empress Dowager Tu Du, titled Duke Quoc Cong, the Nguyen dynasty commissioned the construction of the Royal Tomb in the architectural style reserved for royal tombs of that era, hence its name, Royal Tomb.
These historical and cultural relics in Go Cong are not mere solitary remnants but intimately intertwined with the lives of its surrounding inhabitants—the soul of these artifacts. When touring Tien Giang, visiting Go Cong, don't miss out on Tan Thanh Beach, famed for its pristine black sand, one of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches. Enjoy delectable seafood offerings that reflect the local coastal flavors.
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Tan Thanh Beach is renowned as a "clam paradise" of the Mekong Delta, making its clam dishes a celebrated delicacy. The bridge extending into the sea is a focal point, enhancing the allure of Tan Thanh Beach. Like other beaches, it soothes the soul, offering tranquility and rejuvenation, returning all weariness to the vast ocean.
Discovering Go Cong's ancient allure unveils a world of architectural marvels and historical treasures, blending seamlessly with modernity, ensuring an enriching travel experience in Vietnam's Tien Giang province.