Da Nang Museum receives 88 excavated artefacts, including possible eighth-century statue
The finds came from two Nguyen Dynasty defence sites. The museum plans further research, exhibitions and digital access.
Da Nang Museum has received 88 archaeological artefacts for conservation and study, including a sandstone statue provisionally linked to eighth-century Champa culture. The Da Nang Management Board of Monuments and Landscapes transferred the collection following excavations at Chon Sang Fort and Nam Chon Station.
The statue was found in pit H2 at Chon Sang Fort. A figure seated in meditation appears on its front; markings on the reverse may be Cham inscriptions, but further study is needed. The collection also includes glazed ceramics, stoneware, terracotta construction materials and stone objects. Chon Sang Fort yielded 10 items and Nam Chon Station 78; eight items have been restored.
Archaeologists examined 600 square metres across the two sites in Hai Van Ward during a 45-day excavation beginning on May 25. Both locations belonged to the coastal defence network of the Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. They helped control the national north-south route and defend the northern approach to Da Nang Bay.
Board director Hoang Thi Bich Hanh said the discoveries would support further research into the sites and their place in the historical landscape around Hai Van Pass. She said the results would also underpin applications for municipal-level heritage recognition for both locations.
Museum director Huynh Dinh Quoc Thien said the institution would collaborate with specialists to study the objects against historical records. He said the transfer brought legal and professional conservation responsibilities. The museum also plans displays, digitisation and the use of 3D technology to give Vietnamese and overseas visitors access to the artefacts.
