The system of ancient wells in Quang Tri Province, most concentrated in Gio An commune of Gio Linh district, stands out as a remarkable example of water extraction engineering in the region and throughout Vietnam.

 These ancient constructions, which continue to function reliably today, are now being revitalized by the province to promote community-based tourism.

For thousands of years, the clear waters of the ancient wells in Gio An have flowed without interruption.

The water is refreshingly cool in the summer and warm during the winter, serving not only daily human needs but also agricultural production.

From the Cham people to the Vietnamese, over time, these stone-stacked water systems have evolved into significant cultural artifacts.

Unique structure

Gio An’s ancient wells come in three basic types. The first includes a complex structure with interconnected parts forming a system of settling tanks, guiding channels, catchment basins, and adjacent ditches, lakes, and dams that support the water flow. Examples of this type include the Dao, Trang, Mang, and Gai wells.

The second type has a simpler structure, typically consisting of one or two elements such as settling tanks and guiding ditches - such as the Ong well (for men’s bathing) and Ba well (for women’s bathing).

The third type resembles an open well built at the foot of a hill, where groundwater naturally emerges. These are made of layered stone blocks stacked into a wall structure, yet still follow the self-rising and self-flowing water principle.

According to researcher Le Duc Tho, Deputy Director of the Quang Tri Provincial Center for Heritage and Museum Management, the Gio An well system is a cultural creation developed across historical periods.

It not only reflects the layers of habitation and cultural exchange but also illustrates the continuity of a living heritage, demonstrating sustainable human-centered values.

Promoting the heritage

The ancient wells were recognized as national relics in 2001, with 14 notable wells listed. In 2019, Quang Tri Province initiated the process to propose these ancient waterworks - highlighted by the Gio An system - for recognition as a Special National Heritage Site.

A local official said that Gio An’s ancient wells still provide vital domestic water to local communities. Over the years, the district has invested billions of dong in renovating and preserving key wells such as Dao, Trang, Mang, and Gai, serving both daily use and tourism development.

An Nha hamlet in Gio An commune was chosen as the first pilot site for developing community-based tourism to expand the model more widely. The district also plans to integrate the ancient wells into the province’s tourism itinerary.

To support local residents in building sustainable tourism, the Quang Tri Center for Investment, Trade and Tourism Promotion has organized training programs for local associations such as the Farmers’ Union, Women’s Union, Youth Union, and residents of An Nha.

Select households meeting quality standards have been chosen to establish “green tourism” models, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in authentic rural life.

PV