Impact of Modern Warfare on World Heritage Sites: Stories of Survival and Loss

The world cultural heritage site highlighted in the notes is the My Son Sanctuary, nestled 40 kilometers outside of Da Nang city in central Vietnam.

My Son Sanctuary served as the religious and political epicenter of the Champa Kingdom in Vietnam, constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries. It was primarily dedicated to the worship of Hindu deities, with a special reverence for Shiva. The architectural style is distinctly Khmer, reminiscent of the grandeur of Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Ayutthaya in Thailand, earning it the nickname “Little Angkor Wat.” Despite this, it is significantly smaller in scale and size.

As you explore the final temple area, you’ll notice numerous bomb craters left behind from American bombing during the Vietnam War. This becomes even more apparent on the second page of the notes; the once-majestic temple, now supported by a canopy, lies in ruins, reduced to a heap of scattered bricks.

The intricate stone carvings are barely discernible. The building next to the “Bomb Crater” marker is completely devastated, with weeds, moss, and earth mounds gradually reclaiming the site, making full restoration a daunting challenge.

However, other parts of the sanctuary have been meticulously restored in recent years through international collaboration, nearly returning them to their original splendor. Due to its remote location, the site sees fewer visitors, offering a tranquil and serene environment. Surrounded by lush mountains and sparkling water, the overall visiting experience is truly enchanting [WowR].

[StarR] For transportation: From Da Nang city, you can opt to join a local tour group and travel by tourist bus, or rent a motorcycle for a self-drive adventure. I chose the motorcycle option, covering a round trip of 80 kilometers, which took approximately 3 hours and a bit. This can serve as a reference for your planning.

While the journey can be quite tiring, the road conditions are decent, comparable to provincial roads in China. However, if you lack confidence in your driving skills or are concerned about unexpected police checks, joining a tour group is highly recommended for a stress-free experience.