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Cai Lao Giêng, located in the Tien River, is a garden island rich in sweet fruits and ancient cultural layers, making it a captivating waterway destination in An Giang.
The garden island region of Cai Lao Giêng
Cai Lao Giêng is a fertile alluvial island in the middle of the Tien River, stretching about 12km long and 7km wide. The island comprises three communes: Tan My, My Hiep, and Binh Phuoc Xuan, all belonging to Cho Moi District. This ancient island is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, making it a prime spot for international shipping lines and a popular stopover for travelers exploring the Mekong from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh.
The island still bears the marks of its past as a land being reclaimed and cultivated. It also served as a base for the District Party Committee, Provincial Party Committee, and the Southern Resistance Committee. Several historic sites from the resistance era remain, such as the Wire Pole (Tan My shore), which commemorates the founding of the first Party branch in Long Xuyen province, Tan My Communal Temple, a secret hideout for revolutionary operatives, and the Victory Monument at Tan My, which commemorates the victorious battle on November 14, 1948.
What makes the religious culture of Cai Lao Giêng unique is the presence of numerous places of worship, home to different faiths that coexist peacefully. Among these is the oldest, largest, and most beautiful church in Vietnam. This church, the first in Southern Vietnam (before the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Saigon), was built in 1877 during Emperor Tu Duc's reign and completed in 1887 during Emperor Dong Khanh’s rule. Many of its building materials were imported from France.
There are numerous experiences to enjoy on the island.
The island is home to the Quan Phong Monastery, built in 1864 in Romanesque architecture. This monastery is one of three ancient religious complexes on the island. Covering over 70,000m², the monastery has an old-world charm, adorned with moss and a peaceful, timeless aura. Within the grounds, there is a lovely garden filled with a variety of flowers, some of which are imported from Da Lat. Alongside the gardens, fish ponds add to the scenic beauty.
Adjacent to it is the 71,000m² Franciscan Monastery, built in the Gothic style. With its pointed arches and large windows, this monastery has served as a seminary for training priests for the Phnom Penh Diocese since the late 19th century. Its simple design features three symmetrical wings arranged in a U-shape. Today, the church, kitchen, priests' quarters, and retreat center remain intact.
Cai Lao Giêng may be small, but it represents the riverine garden civilization. With all of its agricultural land dedicated to fruit cultivation, the island is home to flourishing orchards. Visitors come not only to explore its spiritual sites but also to enjoy the garden landscapes. Experiencing the local atmosphere, tasting fresh fruits, and visiting the nylon basket weaving and Tan My woodworking villages are also popular and exciting activities.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnNovember 8, 2024
