Po Nagar

Po Nagar is a Cham temple tower complex located near Nha Trang, Vietnam. It was built between the 8th and 13th centuries by the Chams, an Austronesian people who formerly ruled the area of what is now central Vietnam. The complex is dedicated to Yan Po Nagar, the goddess of the country, who is considered the mother of the kingdom and is associated with fertility, earth, and creativity.

The name "Po Nagar" refers to the goddess herself, while the entire temple complex is often referred to as Thap Ba, meaning "the Lady's Towers." The complex originally consisted of eight towers, but only four remain relatively intact. These towers are constructed from brick and stone, displaying intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu deities, mythical creatures, and scenes from Cham life.

The most significant tower is dedicated to Yan Po Nagar. The others are dedicated to Shiva, Ganesh, and the goddess Kiratha. The site was a center of religious and cultural significance for the Cham kingdom for centuries.

After the Cham kingdom was absorbed into Vietnam, the site continued to be a place of worship, and is still visited by both Vietnamese and Cham people today. The complex is a popular tourist destination, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Cham civilization and its influence on the region. The annual Thap Ba Festival is held at the site, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors. The festival is a celebration of the goddess Yan Po Nagar and includes traditional music, dance, and religious ceremonies.