Go Thap Special National Monument - A Historical and Cultural Destination in Dong Thap

History and Discovery of Go Thap

Go Thap was discovered by French archaeologists in the late 19th century, initially named Prasat Pream Loven (Five-Walled Temple). Since then, Go Thap has become an important archaeological site that offers deep insights into the Oc Eo culture, characteristic of the Mekong Delta region.

Notable Relics

1. Go Thap Muoi
As the highest mound in the site, Go Thap Muoi is home to many ancient architectural remains, particularly large stone blocks and brick structures. It is also where the stone statues of the Hindu gods Vishnu and Shiva were discovered, adorned with intricate patterns and inscriptions that reflect the Oc Eo culture during the Funan period.

2. Go Minh Su
Located about 400 meters northeast of Go Thap Muoi, Go Minh Su is an archaeological area with numerous ancient pottery shards, broken bricks, and stone statues. Although the stratigraphy of this area has been disturbed, it still preserves many important traces of ancient culture.

3. Go Ba Chua Xu
Approximately 570 meters from Go Thap Muoi, Go Ba Chua Xu is the site where archaeologists discovered the brick foundations of an ancient structure, believed to be about 1,500 years old, associated with the Funan culture.

4. Ba Chua Xu Temple
Built in 1973, Ba Chua Xu Temple is dedicated to the worship of Ba Chua Xu and has become an important pilgrimage site for local people and tourists. This is one of the prominent religious structures at Go Thap.

5. Temple of Thien Ho Vo Duy Duong and Doc Binh Nguyen Tan Kieu
Go Thap also commemorates the heroic deeds of national heroes. The Temple of Thien Ho Vo Duy Duong and Doc Binh Nguyen Tan Kieu, built in 1958, honors these heroes from the resistance against French colonial rule. Every year, the festival at this site attracts numerous visitors and locals.

Cultural Activities and Festivals
Go Thap is not only an archaeological site but also a venue for unique cultural and spiritual festivals. Two major annual festivals are held here:
- Ba Chua Xu Festival on the 15th day of the 3rd lunar month.
- Commemoration Festival for Thien Ho Vo Duy Duong and Doc Binh Nguyen Tan Kieu on the 15th day of the 11th lunar month.
During these festivals, visitors can participate in traditional cultural activities, folk art performances, and prayers for peace and prosperity, as well as enjoy the local specialties of Dong Thap.

Special National Relic Site
With its outstanding historical, cultural, and scientific values, Go Thap was recognized as a Special National Relic on September 27, 2012, under Decision No. 1419/QD-TTg by the Prime Minister. This recognition is a well-deserved acknowledgment of the efforts to preserve and promote the value of this site.

Go Thap is a must-visit destination for those interested in history, culture, and archaeology. Not only is it a place to explore unique historical and cultural values, but Go Thap is also a sacred space linked to the glorious history of the Vietnamese people. The preservation and promotion of Go Thap's values will help safeguard these invaluable cultural legacies for future generations.