My Journey to My Son: Why This UNESCO Gem Stole My Heart

Paul Lee

Why does My Son Sanctuary resonate with me as a must-visit? Simple, it’s a window to the lost world of ancient Asia, shining with the dazzling history of the Champa Kingdom of Southeast Asia. My Son is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s a symbol of Champa civilization in time. With VIET DOVE Travel, and I’m happy to share with you My Journey to My Son: Why This UNESCO Gem Stole My Heart. 

Table of Contents
    The iconic brick archway marks the entrance to My Son Sanctuary.
    The iconic brick archway marks the entrance to My Son Sanctuary.

    What Is My Son sanctuary? Why Am I love It?

    My Son Sanctuary is a  Champa temples, which historian Lê Đình Phụng describes as “a unique testament to the existence of an important Asian civilization in the past.”
    It is a mystical experience for me and witness to the incredible temples that the Cham people built between the 4th and 13th centuries! Standing amongst the ruins of these year-old temples, I was fascinated by the intricate carvings and architecture. Each brick has a story about the Cham civilization and their remarkable history and culture.

    My son was captivated by everything about it. The grass, the stones, the dances,the temples. It is fascinating how My Son feels so special as I dive deeper into understanding the ancient kingdom, and I now value it even more.

    An ancient Cham tower stands tall amidst the forest at My Son Sanctuary
    An ancient Cham tower stands tall amidst the forest at My Son Sanctuary

    A Window into My Son’s History and Culture

    Every empire has its peaks and valleys, and all kingdoms have their advances and setbacks; considering that My Son took over 1000 years to build. The Cham people achieved something extraordinary.  When their people show their love and commitment with their hearts and minds, they go into overdrive to create something special,  making it a top cultural symbol in Southeast Asia. From the 4th to the 13th centuries, they crafted My Son despite wars, time, and politics

    . What amazes me is that its value still shines bright today As I walked through the ancient ruins, I could feel the Cham’s dedication revealing their affection for their gods in every stone or brick placed upon the next. It was akin to the Cham leaving a part of their very soul intact for us to discover in our present time. A Private Heritage Journey to My Son Early Morning tour from Hoi An will help you discover these stories in a personal way.

    The main temple of My Son Sanctuary features intricate carvings and sacred symbolism
    The main temple of My Son Sanctuary features intricate carvings and sacred symbolism

    Additionally, you can refer to top ways to reach my son sanctuary in 2025 to further expand your knowledge.

    The Unique Architecture of the My Son Temples

    The Three-Part Structure of My Son Temples

    The architecture of the My Son temples follows a symbolic three-part design: a solid base representing the Earth, a middle section (the body) symbolizing the world of humans, and a roof that reaches upward toward the divine. This structure is inspired by Mount Meru, the mythical mountain believed to be the center of the universe in Hindu cosmology. It’s a powerful visual representation of spiritual connection and religious belief.

    Cham Architecture Meets Hindu Artistic Influence

    The Cham people developed their own distinctive architectural style but were also deeply influenced by Hindu art and symbolism. Over centuries, they incorporated details from Indian temples, Khmer sanctuaries, and even Roman decorative elements. What makes My Son truly unique is how these external inspirations were seamlessly blended into something unmistakably Cham—resulting in temples that feel both familiar and entirely new. It’s a beautiful fusion of cultures that tells a story of global connection long before globalization.

    Intricate Stone and Brick Carvings That Tell a Story

    Walking through the ruins, you’ll notice walls adorned with bas-reliefs, statues of Hindu deities, sacred animals, and mythical creatures. These weren’t just decorations—they were stories etched in stone. Each carving reflects deep spiritual meaning and remarkable craftsmanship. What’s most impressive is that the Cham artisans didn’t use mortar to hold the bricks together. The precision of their work has stood the test of time, leaving us wondering: how did they do it?

    Private Tour to My Son Sanctuary and Thanh Ha Pottery Village

    If you’re planning a visit and want a more personal experience, consider booking a private tour to My Son Sanctuary combined with a trip to Thanh Ha Pottery Village. This exclusive tour allows you to explore the ancient ruins at your own pace while learning about the Champa civilization from a local guide. Afterward, you’ll visit Thanh Ha, a peaceful riverside village famous for its handmade pottery. You’ll even get a chance to try your hand at making traditional clay products with the artisans themselves. It’s the perfect way to connect the past and present in a single journey.

    A solitary Cham brick tower rises quietly in the forest of My Son Sanctuary
    A solitary Cham brick tower rises quietly in the forest of My Son Sanctuary

    Readmore: Cham Island Half day tour from Hoi An/ Danang

    Let's Explore My Son Together!

    So, that is My Journey to My Son: Why This UNESCO Gem Stole My Heart. It's true;without a doubt, this destination is 100 percent a must-see. The ancient temples, the beautiful history and cultural value make My Son a monumental treasure you will not soon forget. It is clear at VIET DOVE travel how My Son intrigues all travelers. I am sure that you, too, will fall in love with My Son.

    Share