Not so superficial, as magnificent as Tay Ninh, not as famous as Binh Thanh tower, yet the ancient and true nature of Chop Mat tower make visitors coming to Tay Ninh forever remember.
About Chop Dot Tower Tay Ninh
The pyramidor Chot Mat Tower is an ancient tower of Oc Eo culture, predicted by historical documents to be built in the 8th century, but it was not until the middle of the 19th century, specifically 1866. was discovered by French archaeologists at Moi hamlet, Tan Phong commune, Tan Bien district, Tay Ninh province , and about 120km from the center of Ho Chi Minh city.
The tower is very ancient (Photo: Fb Quynh Quynh)
When it was first discovered, a part of the tower collapsed and buried in the ground, so in 1938 people began to carry out restoration works for the first time, then in 2003 and most recently in 2013 to the court. The tower has been in its current shape.
Not only is it one of the three rare ancient temples remaining in the South (along with Binh Thanh tower in Trang Bang and Vinh Hung tower in Bac Lieu), but Chop Mat is also recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. is a national level historic site in 1993. Therefore, it will definitely be an attractive tourist destination in Tay Ninh for those who love archeology.
The unique architecture of Chop Dot tower
The relic of Chop Mat ancient tower was placed on a high mound in the middle of a vast field, around without an obstacle, so it looked like a giant pen straight up to the blue sky from a distance. And the closer it is, the more majestic and majestic of it is shown more clearly, with the foundation is a square with side 5m long and the height from the ground to the top of the tower is 10m.
The tower’s monumental architecture (Photo @hoanghuyyy)
Moreover, the whole building is built of slate and large size bricks, so it looks very solid and has a red-orange color similar to the ancient Cham towers in the Central region.
Chop Mat Tower is designed in square shape, with 3 levels of leveling, gradually smaller upwards and no apex. In which, the tower face is facing east, while the three side walls are facing 3 different directions: West, South and North.
The main door looks east (Photo FB Hang Bui)
A special feature is that even though cement is not used, with some unique binder, the layers of bricks are stacked so tightly that even small beams cannot penetrate, through which we I can only see how “top notch” talent of the old Oc Eo is.
Besides, although it has been renovated based on the existing patterns of the ancient Chot Mat temple , but because the traces have been worn for too long, the new architectures still have no sophistication. and details like the original motifs.
This is clearly shown on the walls, still embossed carvings, still images of gods, flowers or mascots … but if the motifs on the fake arches are on the north side. Already tinged with moss but still subtle in every small detail, the facets are remodeled quite monotonous, stereotyped and not too impressive even newer.
Details were recreated based on the original lines (Photo @Ola Xuan Xuan)
Even so, we cannot deny the great effort and effort of the reconstructors, because with them we can admire a wonderful ancient architecture, representing a renaissance culture. a time like this.
In addition, the brick floor in the heart of Chop Mat tower is also newly re-paved, but fortunately, during the survey of the entire campus, many stone slabs – ruins of the altars were found. Being covered by moss, it exudes strange ancient and quiet features.
Interesting experiences at Chop Dot tower
Although no longer worshiping gods like the Cham towers, there will be no exciting festivals, but instead, visitors to the Chop Mat relic are immersed in a peaceful, airy and fresh atmosphere. In the village, no longer having to hear the loud sound of the sirens or having to smell the polluted air of smoke and dust, it’s simple but so happy.
Enjoy the peaceful scenery at the tower (Photo by Fb Loi Loi)
Besides, the whole tower was built on a rectangular mound 70m long and 65m wide, outside is lush rice fields, inside is a colorful flower garden, so it will be great to You can get stunning virtual live pictures to see.
Vibrant gardens in the tower grounds (Photo @jintefrederix)
In particular, Chot Mat tower is also looked after by a villager whose house is nearby. Whenever a visitor comes, the old man will filter the pile to run into a bottle of mineral water and a brochure introducing the tower. So you can also talk to him to understand more and the unique things of the old Oc Eo civilization.
How to move to Chop Mat tower
From the center of Tay Ninh city, you move along Highway 22B towards Xa Mat border gate, after going about 17km, you will see a sign indicating the way to the tower on the left. Turn on the signboard about 1km to see the tower in the middle of the field, then continue to turn left along the dirt road on the field to arrive.
Signage leading to the tower (Photo @camtupanda)
If you are a person who loves the unique architecture or impressive cultural features of the ancient people without visiting Chop Mat tower in Tay Ninh once in your life, it will be a huge shortcoming.
Photo: Internet