1. Where is Tháp Chóp Mạt Tây Ninh?
The Tháp Chóp Mạt site is located in Xóm Mới hamlet, Tân Phong commune, Tân Biên district, Tây Ninh province, more than 20km northwest of Tây Ninh city center. The structure is built on a high rectangular mound and surrounded by low brick walls. With an unobstructed view, visitors from afar can see the solemn ancient tower nestled amid the lush green rice fields.
2. Brief history & origin of the name Tháp Chóp Mạt
2.1. History
Tháp Chóp Mạt is one of the three ancient towers representing the distinctive Oc Eo culture remaining in Southern Vietnam, along with Binh Thanh tower (Trang Bang, Tay Ninh) and Vinh Hung tower (Vinh Loi, Bac Lieu). According to historical documents, the structure was completed in the 8th century. However, it was not until the 19th century, specifically in 1886, that French experts discovered it, initiating the exploration of this valuable archaeological site.
Upon its discovery, the Tháp Chóp Mạt complex was relatively damaged with one tower completely collapsed and another leaning and losing its peak. Several restoration campaigns were conducted in 1938, 2003, and 2013 to give the tower its current shape. Particularly, based on Decision No. 937/QĐ-BT dated July 23, 1993, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism recognized Tháp Chóp Mạt as a national historical and cultural monument, thus enhancing preservation and promoting the value of this rare relic.
2.2 Origin of the name
No one knows what the people of the Oc Eo civilization originally named their ancient tower. Hence, when the top was found eroded, contemporaries called it by the vernacular name – Tháp Chóp Mạt. The word "Mạt" here encompasses three meanings:
- Damaged, decayed, or vanished (mạt mát, mạt rỗng, mạt vỡ).
- Also means no longer exists.
- Also means the end or final (mạt thế, mạt vận).
From an architectural perspective, the top of the tower is considered the most important part and the pinnacle of art. Losing the top has made this masterpiece incomplete, marking the decline of the Oc Eo civilization. Despite three restoration attempts, the masters have not been able to restore this peak, like an inability to regain a fleeting glory of the past era.
3. Interesting features of Tháp Chóp Mạt Tây Ninh
3.1. Square structure on a high mound
The overall structure of the tower is inspired by the Oc Eo civilization of the post-Funan period – a state that once dominated the Mekong Delta in the early centuries AD. Combining original architecture and restoration efforts, the tower becomes a crossroads of ancient and modern artistic essence.
The tower's foundation measures 5m in length and 10m in height from the ground to the highest point. The base comprises three stepped tiers stacked on top of each other, becoming smaller towards the top, without a peak. With its square shape, Tháp Chóp Mạt resembles a large orange-red pen poised to pierce through the blue skies.
3.2. Primitive materials creating a unique and sturdy structure
The entire structure is built with two main materials: large-sized fired bricks measuring 7 x 18 x 25cm and slate. These are primitive materials that are difficult to process and bond together. Yet, without cement mixture, the ancients were still able to stack the slabs and fired bricks tightly with hardly any gaps. This special feature demonstrates the advanced knowledge in construction and architecture of the ancient civilization.
3.3. Showcasing exquisite carving and sculpting art
The structure has only one door facing east, completed from granite, with the remnants of a beautiful square-shaped basin in front, while the other sides face west, south, and north. Details on the four walls of the tower have been heavily eroded by time, so the restoration craftsmen could only simply recreate the bas-relief motifs and god statues from faint traces on the western and northern walls.
On the outer walls of Tháp Chóp Mạt, the carvings of flowers, birds, and deities come to life through the skillful hands of Funan artisans. The entire pattern motifs are closely linked to the material and spiritual life of the people, giving visitors an indescribable nostalgic feeling.
The nature scenes depict the lifestyle and respect of the ancients for nature, while the religious scenes highlight the reverence for the spiritual entities – specifically the deities Linga and Yoni in the distinctly Oc Eo culture.
4. Experiencing the beauty of Tháp Chóp Mạt Tây Ninh through reviews & images
Withstanding the weather of the Southeast region for over a decade, the Tháp Chóp Mạt site still stands tall, leaving many questions about the glorious Oc Eo civilization of ancient Vietnam. The unique architecture and the mysterious stories behind it will undoubtedly continue to inspire research from experts. Additionally, the ancient tower enriches the "holy land" of Tây Ninh, becoming an enduring pride for the land and its people.
4.1. Experiences through actual visitor reviews
In general, visitors have positive feedback about the landscape and the solid architecture of Tháp Chóp Mạt Tây Ninh. Though the structure is not grand, it provides a distinctive and unforgettable experience for visitors.
4.2. Experiencing through 12 visual images
From any angle, Tháp Chóp Mạt Tây Ninh appears majestic and sacred. Enjoy these photos from far and near to understand the tower's beauty better.
4.3. Images of Tháp Chóp Mạt Tây Ninh from afar
From a certain distance, visitors can observe the entire Tháp Chóp Mạt site in its somber, ancient attire. Although the tower is not adorned with lanterns or colorful decorations, nor invested in vibrant miniatures, it still evokes a poignant nostalgia for a civilization that once existed here.
4.4. Close-up images of Tháp Chóp Mạt Tây Ninh
When approaching closer, visitors can understand the origin of the strange sacred feeling from the smallest details. The primitive bricks and stones, along with meticulously arranged patterns, create a harmonious whole, bringing modern people closer to the cultural and spiritual life of the Funan kingdom.
