Banh It Towers reflect nearly a millennium of Cham history
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In Binh Dinh Province, Vietnam, the Banh It Towers, a complex of four brick structures, reveal almost 1,000 years of Cham civilization.
Locals named the towers for their resemblance to banh it, a traditional Vietnamese cake. Historians also know the complex as the Silver Towers, a name appearing in French records.
Constructed between the late 11th and early 12th centuries, the towers stand on the site of Vijaya, once the capital of the Champa Kingdom and a center for Hindu culture. The complex includes the Main Tower, Gate Tower, Fire Tower, and Stele Tower, each built at a different elevation and serving a unique purpose within the sacred space. The Main Tower, reaching nearly 30 meters in height, was the primary sanctuary and demonstrates the advanced building skills of Cham craftsmen.
The builders transported materials uphill and created ornate details in brick and stone, showcasing a transition toward the Binh Dinh architectural style. The towers’ dark red brickwork and distinctive features, like the Fire Tower’s curved roof, have survived for centuries, offering a glimpse into the religious beliefs and artistic achievements of the Cham people.
Though the full extent of practices within the complex remains unknown, the structures stand as a lasting testament to a rich cultural heritage, contrasting with the modern landscape below.
