CHAM MUSEUM
Established by French archeologists from the Ecole Francaise d'Extreme Orient in 1936, the Cham Museum houses the world's finest collection of Cham art. Many of the statues, sculptures and reliefs were discovered at the My Son complex of Cham temples, a UNESCO designated World Heritage site. Dating from the 4th to the 14th centuries, the sensual artwork depicts both the daily life of the Cham, and a unique mix of Hindu, Brahman, and Buddhist divinities. The museum itself is a beautiful French-style villa with open-air courtyards, fruit trees and bougainvillea.
MARBLE MOUNTAINS
The Marble Mountains are rock outcrops jutting out of the beach just south of Danang. Legend has it that the unusual rock formations are actually dragon eggs. Walking paths lead to the top of the forested cliffs, affording spectacular views of Non Nuoc Beach and the East Sea. Caves nestled into the cliffs were originally inhabited by Cham people. Later, Vietnamese under the Nguyen Dynasty built numerous pagodas in and amongst the caves. During the Vietnam War, the Viet Cong used the caves as hideouts and staging points for attacks against nearby U.S. bases during and after the Tet Offensive. Today, the Marble Mountains are home to various artisans producing sculpture and artwork at the base of the mountains.
NON NUOC BEACH (China Beach)
This white sandy beach on the outskirts of Danang is renowned for both its spectacular beauty and for its history as an R&R destination for American troops during the Vietnam - U.S. War. Today, the beaches are home to luxurious resorts, surfing, and entertainment facilities.
MY SON
My Son is a remarkable city of Cham ruins located in a remote, forested valley some 70 km west of Danang. Built in the 7th century, the city at My Son used to contain over seventy stupas and temples. Though the area suffered fierce bombing during the Vietnam - U.S. War, over 20 structures remain.
(Images top right & centre © Star Cruises)
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