Quang Nam is renowned for its numerous ancient Cham towers, celebrated for their unique sandstone sculptures and designs. Beyond the My Son Sanctuary, remnants of the Champa civilization are scattered across the province, including Sang Tower (Dong Duong Buddhist Monastery), Chien Dan Towers, Bang An Tower, and Khuong My Towers, among others.  

However, time has taken its toll, leaving many Cham towers heavily damaged. To preserve these national cultural heritage sites, Quang Nam has committed significant funding for their restoration.  

Located in Binh Dinh Bac Commune, Thang Binh District, the Dong Duong Buddhist Monastery was once the largest monastery in Southeast Asia. Today, it lies in ruins.  

Only a fragment of Sang Tower, built in 875, remains, supported by steel frames amid overgrown vegetation. 

Despite these supports, bricks and stones have loosened and fallen, posing a collapse risk. To save this monument, Quang Nam is investing VND 12 billion for its reinforcement.  

Located in Tam An Commune, Phu Ninh District, about 30 kilometers away, the Chien Dan Towers - constructed in the late 11th century - are also deteriorating. The complex comprises three towers: north, central, and south.  

In 2021, VND 5.5 billion was spent restoring the south tower, with work completed in late 2023. 

However, the central and north towers have deteriorated significantly, with tree roots penetrating the walls, bricks loosening, and surfaces weathered by time. Restoration for these towers is estimated at VND 17 billion.  

Situated along Provincial Road 609 in Dien An Ward, Dien Ban Town, Bang An Tower is unique for its octagonal architecture, unlike any other Cham tower in Vietnam. Once 21.5 meters tall, the structure has been damaged by natural forces and war, leaving only the main worship tower.  

The tower's summit has eroded, decorative elements are missing, and cracks run along its walls. Quang Nam plans to invest VND 9 billion to restore this historically significant monument.  

Located in Tam Xuan 1 Commune, Nui Thanh District, Khuong My Towers comprise three structures aligned along a north-south axis. Recognized as a National Historic Site in 1989, these towers are celebrated for their size, beauty, and intricate designs.  

After more than a millennium, the towers are in critical condition. In late 2019, VND 12 billion was allocated to restore the central and north towers. However, the south tower continues to degrade, with bricks crumbling at the base. Nearly VND 6 billion has been earmarked for its restoration.  

Nguyen Thanh Hong, Director of Quang Nam's Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, emphasized that the restoration aims to stabilize the structures, preserve their historical value, and transform them into cultural and research attractions to promote local socio-economic development.  

The projects have been submitted to the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism for approval. Once endorsed, restoration efforts are expected to be completed by the end of 2025.  

Ha Nam