National treasures from Dong Duong Buddhist Monastery in Quang Nam
Update: Oct 08, 2024
The Dong Duong Buddhist Monastery (Thang Binh, Quang Nam province) was once the largest Buddhist monastery in the ancient Champa Kingdom and Southeast Asia. Three of the precious artefacts discovered at Dong Duong are now Vietnam's national treasures.

The Tara Goddess statue was excavated in 1978 and is currently housed at the Danang Museum of Cham Sculpture.

The Tara statue

The Dong Duong Buddha Statue, dating to the 8th–9th century, is Southeast Asia's oldest bronze one. It is now a national treasure displayed at the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History.

It is a bronze statue, weighing 120kg, standing 120cm tall, and measuring 38cm in width.

The statue showcases a harmonious design with intricate details.

The Dong Duong Buddha statue reflects the Amaravati artistic style, rooted in the Dravidian culture.

Discovered in the early 20th century, the Dong Duong altar (No. 22.24) is one of the finest ones from the Champa Kingdom.

Dating back to the 9th-10th century, it is crafted from sandstone and consists of 24 tightly joined stone blocks.

The exterior of the altar's steps and surrounding areas

The Dong Duong Altar.

Translated by H.Thu

Quang Nam News - en.baoquangnam.vn - Oct 4, 2024