Closer look at ethnic Cham tower complex in south-central Vietnam

After more than 700 years, the tower complex, located in the former Phan Rang-Thap Cham City under the erstwhile Ninh Thuan Province, now part of the south-central province of Khanh Hoa, has preserved its majestic and ancient appearance.

It has become a distinctive symbol of cultural heritage.

The towers were built by King Jaya Sinhavarman III in the late 13th to 14th centuries to worship the Hindu deity Shiva.

After the 15th century, the site was localized by the ethnic Cham people and became a place of worship for King Po Klong Garai, a revered historical figure in Cham culture.

Through centuries of historical changes, the complex has been regarded as one of the most magnificent and charming Cham tower complexes in Vietnam.

Its architecture reflects the outstanding artistic and construction achievements of the ancient Champa civilization, particularly through its intricate carvings and unique design.

Beyond its value as an architectural and sculptural masterpiece, the Po Klong Garai Towers have for centuries served as a sacred pilgrimage site and a gathering place for the ethnic Cham community.

The complex consists of three towers: the Main Tower, which honors King Po Klong Garai, the Gate Tower, and the Fire God Tower, local media reported.

These towers were built from red-fired bricks.

Researchers believe that the ancient Cham builders used a dark brown binding material to join the bricks.

Despite the extremely thin layer of mortar between each brick, the structure has remained remarkably strong and durable over hundreds of years.