It was accidentally discovered on April 18, 2001, when a group of workers exploiting titanium minerals found a brick buried deep in the sand. This event immediately attracted the attention of the authorities, opening a challenging but very proud journey of conservation and research.
Phu Dien Tower, which has a rectangular architecture, is 8.22 m long and 7.12 m wide, with levels gradually decreasing towards the top. According to researchers, this is a dwarf tower architecture and the first group of towers of Champa brick architecture before switching to construction with sustainable materials. The simplicity but sophistication in the tower's design reflects a rather unique architectural and religious style. After a period of being buried in sand, the tower is currently preserved in site in a greenhouse architecture to limit the negative impacts of the natural environment.
Inside the tower, archaeologists have found many important artifacts such as a pedestal for the linga (representing the positive characteristics) and yoni (negative characteristics) demonstrating the worship of the ancient Cham people. The ceramic jars found also show the sophistication and development of the pottery industry at that time.
The conservation process of Phu Dien Tower over the past 20 years has not only protected a valuable architectural heritage but also become an important destination for those who want to explore and learn about Champa cultural heritage.
Admiring Phu Dien Tower is also a reminder to protect and honour historical values. Regarding the tower’s importance, Phu Dien Tower was immediately recognized as a National Architectural and Artistic Relic Site also in 2001. More than 20 years later, on May 30, 2022, Phu Dien Tower earned world record recognition from the World Records Union (Worldkings) for the criterion of the first ancient Cham tower sinking deep under the coastal sand dunes to be excavated and preserved in the world.
