Po Nagar Cham Towers
South Central Coast Region
Po Nagar Cham Towers is a historic Cham temple complex located on Cù Lao Mountain near Nha Trang, Vietnam. Founded before 781 AD, the site is dedicated to Yan Po Nagar, the goddess of the country, who is associated with Hindu goddesses such as Bhagavati and Durga. The complex consists of three levels with multiple towers, the tallest reaching approximately 25 meters high. The central statue of Yan Po Nagar is a 1.2-meter tall stone figure with ten hands holding symbolic items, reflecting the goddess's identification with Durga, the buffalo-demon slayer. The temple features Cham architectural styles, including a notable pediment sculpture of Mahishasuramardini from the Tra Kieu style, dating from the late 10th to early 11th century. Over centuries, the temple was restored and endowed by various Cham kings and military leaders, reflecting its religious and cultural significance. The site also illustrates the historical intermingling of Hinduism and Buddhism in the region. Today, it remains a prominent spiritual and tourist attraction, celebrated for its historical depth, architectural beauty, and cultural importance.
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Astuce: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Consider purchasing tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons. Modest dress is recommended as the site remains a religious place. Guided tours can enrich the experience with historical context. Discounts may be available for students and groups.
Faits intéressants
- •The temple was restored by King Satyavarman in 781 after being damaged by foreign invaders, possibly from Java.
- •The central statue of Yan Po Nagar has ten hands holding symbolic items, linking her to the Hindu goddess Durga.
- •A notable pediment sculpture above the temple entrance depicts the goddess Mahishasuramardini standing on a buffalo, dating to the Tra Kieu style from the late 10th or early 11th century.
- •The original golden statue of the goddess was stolen by Khmer forces in 950 and replaced with a stone statue in 965.
- •The temple complex is built on Cù Lao Mountain and consists of three levels with multiple towers, the tallest being about 25 meters high.
Histoire
The Po Nagar Cham Towers were founded before 781 AD in the former principality of Kauthara.
King Satyavarman restored the temple after it had been damaged by foreign invaders, possibly from Java, who looted its treasures around 781.
Subsequent Cham rulers, including Harivarman I and Indravarman III, made significant endowments and enhancements.
The original golden statue of the goddess was stolen by Khmer forces in 950, replaced by a stone statue in 965.
The temple witnessed further donations and restorations through the 11th and 12th centuries.
In the 17th century, the Vietnamese took control of the region and renamed the temple Thiên Y Thánh Mẫu Tower, integrating it into local culture and legends.
Guide du lieu
Main Tower
The tallest tower in the complex, approximately 25 meters high, serving as the central worship site dedicated to goddess Yan Po Nagar.
Central Statue of Yan Po Nagar
A 1.2-meter tall stone statue of the goddess sitting cross-legged, representing her as a deity with multiple symbolic attributes linked to Hindu goddesses.
Pediment SculptureLate 10th to early 11th century
A four-armed sculpture of the goddess Mahishasuramardini standing on a buffalo, holding a hatchet, lotus, and club, exemplifying Cham art from the Tra Kieu style.