Nguyen Sinh Sac Monument Complex - A Place Preserving Historical Roots in Cao Lanh City, Dong Thap

1. Introduction to the Memorial Site of Pho Bang Nguyen Sinh Sac

The Memorial Site of Pho Bang Nguyen Sinh Sac is located at 123/1 Pham Huu Lau Street, Ward 4, Cao Lanh City, Dong Thap Province. The site was recognized as a national cultural relic by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism on April 9, 1992. It serves as a significant cultural monument dedicated to Nguyen Sinh Sac – the beloved father of President Ho Chi Minh.

Construction of the memorial began in August 1975 and was completed in December 1977, covering an area of 3.6 hectares. The site is divided into three main areas: the Tomb of Nguyen Sinh Sac, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, and the Lotus Pond.

2. Features of the Memorial Site

2.1. The Tomb of Pho Bang Nguyen Sinh Sac
The tomb of Nguyen Sinh Sac is designed in a distinctive style, with a lotus-shaped roof symbolizing an open hand facing downward. Nine carved dragons adorn the roof, representing the nine provinces of the Mekong Delta, signifying protection for the grave of the patriotic scholar. The tomb is made of granite, with an irregular hexagonal platform that expands outward on both sides and at the front.
In front of the tomb is a five-pointed star-shaped lotus pond, with a stylized white lotus tower standing nearly 7 meters tall. This lotus tower not only symbolizes the noble life of Nguyen Sinh Sac but also represents Dong Thap, the homeland that nurtured and preserved valuable cultural heritage.
Notably, the memorial grounds feature rare and valuable trees, including a nearly 300-year-old star fruit tree and a 300-year-old tree of the sop species, planted by locals and visitors as commemorative offerings.

2.2. The Memorial House of Pho Bang Nguyen Sinh Sac
The Memorial House displays numerous valuable artifacts and documents about the life and career of Nguyen Sinh Sac. Visitors can explore key moments of his life, especially his time spent in Cao Lanh in the southern region of Vietnam. The site also houses Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, a replica of the one in Hanoi’s Presidential Palace. Visitors can experience the simple and modest life of Ho Chi Minh through the furniture and personal items in his working and resting quarters.

2.3. Activities and Festivals
Every year, on the 27th day of the 10th lunar month, people from surrounding areas gather at the memorial site to participate in the death anniversary ceremony of Nguyen Sinh Sac. This is an occasion to honor his contributions and reflect the Vietnamese tradition of "remembering the source of the water we drink."
The death anniversary of Pho Bang Nguyen Sinh Sac has been elevated to a provincial-level festival by the Dong Thap Provincial People’s Committee, featuring a variety of cultural, artistic, and sports activities. These events aim to educate the public on patriotic traditions and enhance the historical value of the memorial.
In 2020, the ceremony was held on a smaller scale due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it still took place with solemnity and ensured safety for all participants.

3. Visitor Tips for the Memorial Site of Pho Bang Nguyen Sinh Sac

- Visiting Time: The memorial site is open year-round. It is recommended to visit during the dry season (from November to April) to enjoy the fresh air and participate in local festivals.
- Respect the Sacred Space: The memorial is dedicated to the remembrance of a national hero, so visitors are advised to show respect throughout their visit.

The Memorial Site of Pho Bang Nguyen Sinh Sac is not only a place of deep historical significance but also a site where visitors can learn more about the simple, virtuous life of the great father of President Ho Chi Minh. By visiting this memorial, we honor and express gratitude to Nguyen Sinh Sac for his contributions, while also preserving and promoting the rich cultural and historical values of Dong Thap Province.