Hội An 2011 - Program Book

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Hoi An ancient town – The World Cultural Heritage site
Hoi An is located 30 km to the South of Da Nang city, and 60 km to the Northeast of Tam Ky city.
The ancient town of Hoi An is not only a unique place in Vietnam but also a rare one in the world
that preserves well its original architectures including houses, assembly halls, temples, pagodas,
shrines, wells, ports, communal house etc and several narrow roads running across to form a
chessboard town. The scenery of Hoi An colored by moss looks like a lively picture. This is regarded
as a living museum of the architecture and city lifestyle. Hoi An was listed as a World Cultural
Heritage site by UNESCO in December 1999.
My Son Sanctuary – The World Cultural Heritage Site
Belonging to Duy Phu commune, Duy Xuyen district, My Son sanctuary is 45 km to the West of Hoi
An city, 70 km to the South of Da Nang city.
My Son was formerly a group of more than 70 temple-towers. Each temple has typical architecture
which reflects each historical stage of the Champa Kingdom. Most of the architecture and
sculptures were influenced by Hinduism. Most of the temples face to the East - the sun direction.
Champa people thought that the East was the place where the gods lived. Only a few towers face
to the West or both the East and West, this meant that when the king died he would be conferred
as a god and present his affection to his ancestor.
Up to now, the bindingtechniques without any mortar is still a secret which stimulates fondness
for curiosity, discovery and research of scientists as well as visitors.
In December 1999, Hoi An ancient town together with My Son were recognized by UNESCO as the
World Cultural Heritage Sites.