Discovery of Nguyen Dynasty defensive remnants in Hai Van Ward, Da Nang City
WVR - Over 960 artifacts along with numerous remnants of fortifications, moats, stone embankments, and defensive structures have been uncovered at Nam Chon Station and Chon Sang Fort in Hai Van Ward, Da Nang City.
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The initial excavation results contribute to a clearer understanding of the scale, structure, and construction techniques of two Nguyen Dynasty projects, while also providing a foundation for further research and connection of relics along the Hai Van route.
Clarifying the structure of defensive works
In May 2026, the Da Nang City Monuments and Scenic Spots Management Board, in collaboration with the Institute of Archaeology, Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, conducted an emergency excavation at Nam Chon Station and Chon Sang Fort over a total area of 600m².
At Nam Chon Station, archaeologists discovered 904 artifacts dating from the Tran to Nguyen Dynasties; at Chon Sang Fort, 60 relics were found. Additionally, numerous remnants of foundations, stone embankment systems, staircases, defensive structures, and construction materials were uncovered.
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| Chon Sang Fort with foundation remnants and two stone mounds believed to be guard posts overlooking the ancient North-South road. (Source: Van Hoa) |
At Nam Chon, the remaining remnants reveal a fairly complete picture of the three components of a Nguyen Dynasty defensive structure – a service station including the fortress walls, moat system, and outer embankment. The fortress walls were reinforced with stone, indicating a solid and well-planned construction.
Meanwhile, remnants at Chon Sang Fort indicate it was a defensive fort with the function of controlling the ancient road to Hai Van Pass. The structures were arranged to oversee the road, with the southwest embankment and guard posts at the west and south corners oriented towards the road.
Researchers assess that the preservation level of these two relics is quite exceptional compared to many other contemporary defensive structures in Da Nang. The initial results also show that the scale, structure, techniques, and construction materials at Nam Chon and Chon Sang have unique characteristics, with no clear influence from Western techniques as seen in some other Nguyen Dynasty fortifications.
Preserving original state, researching relic connections
Based on the archaeological findings, researcher Bui Van Tieng, Chairman of the Da Nang Historical Science Association, proposed continuing research and surveys to gradually connect the Dinh Hai Fortress, Chon Sang Fort, Nam Chon Station, and Hai Van Station into a series of relics.
According to him, during the 1859 war, these structures did not exist in isolation but formed an interconnected network supporting each other. Fully identifying these links will provide a scientific basis for a comprehensive preservation plan.
After field surveys and hearing excavation reports, Vice Chairman of the Da Nang City People's Committee Nguyen Thi Anh Thi agreed on the policy to preserve the newly uncovered archaeological remnants in their original state.
Research, excavation, preservation, and value promotion efforts must be based on scientific foundations, ensuring no impact on the original elements of the relics and complying with legal regulations.
The city also agreed to continue researching and excavating the two relics after completing the necessary documentation and procedures as required. The Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has been tasked with finalizing the research and excavation plan, determining the scope, area, progress, funding, and measures to protect the site to present to the city People's Committee by October 2026.
Simultaneously, the city requires the completion of scientific documentation to propose the classification of Nam Chon Station and Chon Sang Fort as city-level relics, reviewing land, determining boundaries, and delineating protection zones.
