A ancient well, which is presumed to be built in the 12th century, has square structure, each side of which is nearly 1m long. — Photo dantocmiennui.vn

QUẢNG NAM – An ancient well has been discovered in Quảng Nam Province due to the joint efforts carried by the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and local administrators and villagers of Hương An Commune to protect an ancient Chăm well that has been excavated in the region.

The ancient well, which is presumed to be built in the 12th century, has square structure, each side of which is nearly 1m long. It is made of ancient Chăm bricks, similar to materials used in other Chăm temples within Quảng Nam Province.

According to Tôn Thất Hướng, head of the department, archeologists have confirmed through their studies and surveys that a Chăm community used to inhabit in the area surrounding the ancient well for many centuries.

Presently, besides the ancient Chăm well, there is a complex of Chăm artifacts such as steles, statues and temples located about 20m from Hương An Commune. This architectural complex has been recognised as a provincial historical and cultural heritage site and is being strictly preserved.

The newly-discovered ancient well was discovered by the edge of a ricefield, so the local authority and villagers are identifying the area that needs protection and building a fence to prevent erosion during agricultural activities.

Hướng added that the province plans to invite specialists to conduct surveys, and to study and assess the historical value of the well. This may lead to yet more scientific evidence of an ancient Chăm community having persisted over time in the region.

The Chăm dynasty used to endure in the region now known as central Việt Nam from the 7th century well into the 19th century. They were renowned for their immense wealth and sophisticated culture. -- VNS