'Reviving' the precious gem of My Son

Tower groups F and E, located close to each other in the My Son Temple Complex (Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam ), are living proof of the development of Champa architecture and sculpture. In particular, tower group F, including 3 structures F1, F2, F3, used to be an architectural complex worshiping early Shivaism, dating from the 7th - 8th century to the 10th - 11th century. Unfortunately, tower F3 has completely disappeared due to war bombs, leaving only the location on the diagram. The remaining two structures F1 and F2 are seriously degraded, especially the gate tower F2, which only has a 3.2 m high wall, leaning to the south, a clear sign of the destruction of time and war.

‘Hồi sinh’ viên ngọc quý Mỹ Sơn- Ảnh 1. — My Son temple complex is considered a precious gem in the valley.

With tower group E, including 8 architectural works from E1 to E8, tower E1 is the main tower of area E, the earliest dating back to the 8th century, most of the remaining works in tower group E are in a state of severe damage, only ruins remain. The preservation of groups F and E is not only an act of saving the physical relics but also an effort to preserve an important part of Champa history and culture.

Under the guidance of Indian experts, dozens of skilled Vietnamese workers are diligently and scientifically dissecting the overall area of Groups F and E. This is a continuation of the success of previous restorations, where experience and harmonious cooperation between the two sides have created important steps forward in conservation work.

The My Son restoration project was initiated in 2014, with the goal of "reviving" the ancient architectural complex to its original appearance as when the French discovered it. With funding from the Government of India, the project has laid a solid foundation for the conservation of brick relics in My Son, in compliance with international standards of scientific conservation. The inheritance of techniques, materials and human resources are favorable factors that help the Vietnam - India cooperation project achieve remarkable achievements, making My Son a typical model in heritage conservation.

Mr. Nguyen Cong Khiet, Director of the My Son Cultural Heritage Management Board, said that the project to preserve tower groups F and E will officially start in March 2025 and last until 2029. The plan includes components to preserve and restore groups F and E; firmly reinforce and preserve the original elements, ensuring the authenticity of the relic.

Recently, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has also allowed the My Son Cultural Heritage Management Board to coordinate with relevant units to conduct archaeological excavations of the L tower group. According to Mr. Khiet, the success of the F and E tower group conservation project along with the L tower group excavation project will make an important contribution to the "revival" of the entire My Son relic site, maximizing the value of the heritage and restoring the long-standing historical value of the tower groups.

"If My Son is likened to a pearl, then it is the conservation efforts that have been gradually lifting the veil that has covered it for centuries, "polishing" that precious pearl to shine brighter and brighter from the deep valley of My Son. It is a relentless journey to preserve and promote the value of a world cultural heritage, so that this "precious pearl" will shine forever," Mr. Khiet affirmed.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/hoi-sinh-vien-ngoc-quy-my-son-185250619183138798.htm