The Complex of the Monument of Vietnamese Heroic Mothers is a national cultural work and a sacred symbol commemorating the immense sacrifices of heroic Vietnamese mothers during the wars.
Covering an area of over 16 hectares, the complex is located at Cam Mountain, Quang Phu Ward, Da Nang City. The design, created by artist Dinh Gia Thang, is based on the likeness of Mother Nguyen Thi Thu – a woman who lost nine sons, one son-in-law, and two grandsons to the wars. Beyond its profound cultural and historical significance, the monument is also a monumental work of sculpture, recognized as one of the most remarkable architectural achievements of Da Nang City and the country.
MAIN STRUCTURES
Main Statue Block: The entire statue is constructed from massive granite blocks, with the total weight of stone and concrete reaching approximately 20,000 tons. The monument’s structure resembles a high mountain peak at the center, gradually descending to both sides—symbolizing “Mother as the boundless source of life, the soul of the nation.”
At the center stands a semi-bust of Mother Thu, over 18 meters tall. The curved wings on both sides represent the Mother’s open arms, sheltering her children. Along the walls, bas-reliefs depict the silhouettes of her children gathering around her—a symbol of peace and unity, where descendants from North, Central, and South Vietnam reunite under their Mother’s embrace.
Hall of Vietnamese Heroic Mothers: Located within the main monument, the memorial hall spans an area of about 950 m² and honors nearly 50,000 heroic mothers across the country. Visitors can view photographs, biographies, and artifacts connected to their lives and sacrifices. Some notable exhibits include copper rice pots used to cook for soldiers, wartime weaving looms, and flower vases from family altars—touching representations of the silent devotion and noble sacrifice of these women.
Front Square: In front of the monument lies a vast square used for ceremonial gatherings, designed following traditional spatial and ritual principles with a formal gateway, main axis, and solemn courtyard. Along the pathway to the monument stand 30 stone lamp clusters symbolizing 30 years of protracted resistance—and also 30 long years of waiting for husbands and sons by the heroic mothers. The square often hosts commemorative ceremonies on national holidays and major anniversaries.
Water Pond and Landscape: In front of the monument is a crescent-shaped lake of nearly 1,000 m². The monument rises like a mountain, with the images of the Mother’s children faintly carved on both sides—representing descendants from all regions of Vietnam lovingly returning to her, while she welcomes and embraces them with open arms.
Eight Legendary Pillars: Serving as the symbolic gate of the complex, each pillar stands 11.2 meters high and 1.65 meters in diameter, intricately carved with artistic patterns. The number eight symbolizes prosperity, harmony, and reunion—it also corresponds to President Ho Chi Minh’s eight golden words bestowed upon Vietnamese women: “Heroic – Indomitable – Faithful – Capable.”
OUTSTANDING VALUES OF THE COMPLEX
The Monument of Vietnamese Heroic Mothers Complex is a national “red address” — a place where Vietnamese people across generations come to pay tribute to the nation’s heroic mothers and martyrs. It serves as a meaningful educational site for younger generations, nurturing patriotism, national pride, and the moral tradition of “drinking water, remember the source.”
The stories and exhibits here offer vivid lessons in history, inspiring gratitude and national spirit among visitors, especially the youth. On national holidays and cultural or diplomatic events, solemn incense-offering ceremonies are held to honor fallen heroes and heroic mothers. The complex also serves as a venue for grand national and municipal celebrations, featuring large-scale art performances that have made it not only a cultural tourism landmark but also a significant spiritual and political center for the people of Da Nang..
EXPERIENTIAL ACTIVITIES
Together with other popular destinations in the southern part of the city, the Monument of Vietnamese Heroic Mothers Complex has become an essential stop on the “journey to the roots.” Visitors can explore the architectural structures, hear emotional stories about the mothers’ silent sacrifices, or stroll around the vast front square shaded by thousands of trees donated from provinces nationwide. Behind the monument, visitors can admire the stone garden inscribed with moving poems dedicated to heroic mothers.
During national holidays, visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in solemn commemorative ceremonies and special art programs that provide deeper insights into Vietnam’s history and the enduring patriotism of its people.
Nearby attractions include Quang Phu Martyrs Cemetery, Ky Anh Tunnels, Van Thanh – Khong Mieu, Khuong My Towers, Tam Thanh Beach, Tam Thanh Mural Village, and Phu Ninh Lake.
Quang Phu Martyrs Cemetery,
VISITOR INFORMATION
Address: Le Thanh Tong Street, Quang Phu Ward, Da Nang City
– Approximately 70 km south of Da Nang International Airport
– About 35 km north of Chu Lai Airport
Opening Hours: Exhibition area open daily (except Mondays)
– Morning: 07:30 – 11:00
– Afternoon: 13:30 – 16:30
Admission: Free
DANANG TOURISM PROMOTION CENTER
