My Son, Vietnam
When leaving Hoi An, Danielle and I decided to visit My Son. The My Son Sanctuary is named as perhaps one of the longest inhabited archaeological sites in Indochina. Unfortunately, the majority of the architecture was destroyed by the US during an intense week of bombing during the Vietnam War. Throughout our walk of the site, we could see craters where bombs were dropped and remnants of temples.
About the My Son Sanctuary. This area was home to the most important constructions of the My Son civilization, a unique Hindu culture in Vietnam. They were built during the 4th and the 14th century AD by the kings of Champa. The temples were the religious and political capital for the Champa Kingdom.
The site is known for one of the most technological architectural styles, showcasing the advancements in the Cham engineering skills. Temples are constructed in fired brick with stone pillars, decorated with many motifs centered around Hindu mythology. All of the bricks are fitted so tightly together, there was no need for mortar.
From what remains at My Son, it was truly amazing to see. The temples are tucked away in the jungle with the most luscious landscape, surrounded by foreign species of plants, colors, and sounds.
