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Positioned in Điện An commune, Điện Bàn district, 14km west of Hội An city, Bằng An Tower emerges as a unique exploration site in Hội An for discovery enthusiasts, showcasing the unparalleled Chăm cultural architecture in Quảng Nam.
Chăm Cultural Legacy in Hội An
A short distance from the ancient town's heart, Bằng An Tower now ranks among the most fascinating Hội An attractions for tourists. Offering a contrast to the Chinese-influenced architectural heritage of Hội An's old town, the Điện An commune presents the exceptional Chăm architectural work of Bằng An Tower.
Bằng An Tower is estimated to have been constructed during the late 9th to early 10th centuries under King Bhadravarman II of the Chăm Pa dynasty. It's recognized as the sole surviving octagonal tower, with walls 4m wide and a height exceeding 20m. Inside, it features a sandstone linga statue, symbolizing Chăm cultural beliefs. Surrounding the tower are two Gajasimha sandstone statues with bells, serving as protective deities.
Although Bằng An Tower lacks elaborate decorative elements, it is adorned with simple moldings at the base and peak transitions. Its historical and architectural worth positions it among the most intriguing tourist destinations in Hội An, celebrated for its unique cultural signature.
Unique Architecture of Bằng An Tower
The architecture of Bằng An Tower, though simple, acts as a significant testament to the Chăm's distinctive architectural legacy that remains to this day. Regarded as a major brick sculpture within Chăm Pa architectural history, it holds great historical, religious, and cultural value.
This tourism landmark spans 4,000m2, featuring an entrance hall and sanctuary. The entrance hall, extended with a main door facing East and two side doors (transformed into windows by 1940), raises over a 3m high base. The hall’s cross-shaped interior is defined by vertical wall corners and framed doorways.
Above the hall, the structure blooms outward like a floral stand, capped with a four-sided spire that narrows to the top. Despite some erosion and the loss of edge decorations, the entrance hall remains well-preserved.
The sanctuary's octagonal base divides into three clear sections: the base, the octagonal middle, and a pyramidal roof formed by eight tapering sides, resembling a giant Linga. The overall layout symbolizes a Yoni, reflecting the Chăm Pa's primitive Linga and Yoni worship. Two sandstone lion and elephant statues guard the exterior.
Bằng An Tower retains much of its original form, embodying significant historical, cultural, and religious values, alongside its architectural and sculptural merits.
The emergence of Bằng An Tower alongside other Quảng Nam attractions adds a fascinating highlight to the exploration of beloved Hội An. Visitors not only delve into the traditional culture of the Chăm Pa but also marvel at an architectural masterpiece that captures the essence of this region's glorious historical era.
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