Embarking on a nostalgic journey through the historical landscapes of Can Tho

The allure of history is something I always cherish on my travel routes. Whenever I encounter a historical site, I make sure to allocate time to explore the surroundings. For me, visiting a new region is an experiential journey of learning and enjoyment. Understanding the place you visit adds a profound connection, making you love and remember that land beyond mere check-ins for picturesque photos.

A typical Can Tho trip often involves popular spots like Ninh Kieu Wharf, Cai Rang Floating Market, Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery, or the My Khanh tourist village. But are you familiar with the unique destinations tracing the city's exceptional roots? If not, experience a part of that distinctive journey, traveling against the currents of the past in Can Tho through this article.

Gieng Gua Heritage Site

Gieng Gua Heritage Site stands out as the most unique and beautiful natural heritage of Can Tho city. This destination, perhaps unknown to many, lacks the glamour that tourists usually expect. Here, it's just nature and tranquility.

Embarking on a journey against the currents of the past in Can Tho, many whispered tales trace back to the Gieng Gua area, dating back to the southern land opening era. It's a sacred place associated with Lady Thuong Dong Co Hien, a benevolent figure aiding the settlers and wanderers in this area. They have been venerating her in a temple since ancient times, and every year on the 28th of February, a memorial ceremony is held, expressing wishes for enduring prosperity.

It wasn't until after the French era that the strategic location of Gieng Gua thrived as the United States poured into the southern region. With its dense vegetation along the riverbanks, it became a hideout and operational hub for the foreign invaders' central military management in the southwestern brain center. Gieng Gua served as a refuge, storage facility, supply point, and a venue for devising the military strategy of the South Vietnamese army. It awaited the ninth day of the ninth month to launch the historic Tet Offensive (1968) across the southern cities, with Can Tho being a focal point in the Mekong Delta. The final military consolidation at the Gieng Gua site set the stage for the liberation of Can Tho in April 1975.

In April 2013, this site was recognized as a city-level historical monument, and in June 2013, the ancient banyan tree, over 100 years old, was acknowledged as a heritage tree. It not only carries precious genetic material but also symbolizes the historical journey of the Can Tho region.

Currently, the Gieng Gua Heritage Site covers approximately 2700m2, reaching a height of about 12m. While it may be well-known among local residents as a historical attraction, it often goes unnoticed in the tourism circuit. Nevertheless, for those with an appreciation for nature and a fascination with the wonders of plant life, this historical site offers a unique and enriching experience.

Location: Gieng Gua Heritage Site, Nhon Nghia Commune, Phong Dien District, Can Tho City. Approximately 10km from the city center.

Cần Thơ Grand Exploration Site - Navigating the currents of the past in Can Tho

The Cần Thơ Grand Exploration Site is perhaps the most emotionally stirring place in the journey back to the roots, navigating the currents of the past in Can Tho. The site evokes a sense of somberness, a chilling feeling of the confinement of bygone years for visitors.

Established in 1886 after the formation of Cần Thơ province, Cần Thơ Grand Exploration Site served as a detainment facility for Vietnamese political prisoners. Back then, it was known in French as Prison Provinciale (Provincial Prison), a name that still stands engraved on the entrance gate to this day.

Situated opposite the former provincial governor's residence, Cần Thơ Grand Exploration Site is characterized by tall walls, barbed wire, and steel fences. Prisoners were confined in communal cells, and even solitary confinement areas for torture, making it nearly impossible to escape.

Following the Geneva Accords in 1954, this place was renamed as the Rehabilitation Center. On June 28, 1996, it was officially recognized as a National Historical-Cultural Monument.

Visiting Cần Thơ Grand Exploration Site immediately transports you to the ambiance of days gone by, still resonating with the scent of moss and solemnity. Accompanied by a reenactment of the earthly hell of the past, it instills a chilling sensation in the onlookers.

Behind the grand building lies an exhibition room showcasing artifacts, symbols, and slogans of past struggles, along with instruments used to torture prisoners. In this display area, you'll gain insights into the people of the past, realizing a profound truth: 'A prison can only confine the body, never the will, perseverance, and fervent 'love' of patriotic soldiers.

The lesser-known Khám Lớn in Cần Thơ stands as a remarkable historical site. When visiting Cần Thơ, explore this place to witness not just its beauty but also the historical remnants that unveil a resilient struggle. Understand the development of the fertile land of Cần Thơ today and delve into its past to grasp the heroic history and sacrifices of its people.

The Khám Lớn historical site is located at 8 Ngô Gia Tự Street, Tân An Ward, Ninh Kiều District, Cần Thơ City. It's approximately 200m from the Ninh Kiều Wharf area.

The Khám Lớn historical site in Cần Thơ offers free admission from Monday to Friday. Morning hours are from 8 am to 11 am, and afternoon hours are from 2 pm to 5 pm.

The Vua Hùng Temple

Another stop on the journey through the past in Cần Thơ. The Vua Hùng Temple in the land of Cần Thơ is the newest source and the latest spiritual tourist destination in the southwestern gateway of the Mekong Delta. Considered the grandest monument dedicated to the legendary national ancestor Vua Hùng in the Mekong Delta region.

Completed on April 6, 2022, on a 39000m2 plot, this is a spiritual and standout photographic spot for current tourism in Cần Thơ. The exterior features a welcoming gate inspired by the Dong Son drum pattern, complemented by accent lighting.

Moving inside, you'll find the ceremonial gate, memorial houses, crescent-shaped lake, main temple, and below, an exhibit room showcasing artifacts. Each structure holds a distinct significance representing the nation's imagery, people, sovereignty, and the roots of the Vietnamese ethnic group.

A collection of 12 Dong Son bronze drums and the quintet gong set of the Khmer people

The Vua Hùng Temple is located on Vo Van Kiet Street, Binh Thuy Ward, Binh Thuy District, Can Tho City. It's approximately 7km from the Ninh Kieu Wharf area.

The Vua Hùng Temple offers free admission from Monday to Sunday. Morning hours are from 7:30 am to 11:30 am, and afternoon hours are from 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm.

Embarking on a journey to explore the roots and traverse the past in Can Tho was a fascinating experience. The landmarks deepened my understanding and love for the beauty of my homeland. Gratitude fills me for the previous generations who dedicated their lives to shaping the nation and nurturing the resilient natural landscapes that have thrived, shielding our forces for centuries. Even after a hundred years, they stand tall, illuminating the colors of Vietnam's heritage. If you ever have the chance to travel to Can Tho, make sure to embrace a truly different Can Tho at these destinations!

Mytour Golocal presents a blog series introducing beautiful destinations across Vietnam under the Mytour Go & Share program. It's an excellent opportunity to promote local tourism. For each qualifying article, you'll receive 800,000 VND and a chance to become a Mytour collaborator. For more details about the program, visit: https://trv.lk/golocal