Cang Bac Me Historical Site - A Revolutionary Landmark by the Historic Gam River
In the majestic landscape of Ha Giang, where steep rocky mountains embrace deep green rivers, there is a destination that carries a solemn beauty and is steeped in historical significance – Cang Bac Me. Located by the gentle Gam River, on the Dragon Mountain slope in Bac Me district, this place is not only a historical site but also a witness to the resilient struggle of the nation.
The remnants preserved within Cang Bac Me (Source: Vietnam National Tourism Administration)
The road leading to the historical site winds along the mountainside, with the distant emerald green of the Gam River quietly flowing through the vast forest. Not noisy, not bustling, Cang Bac Me carries a very unique tranquility – a stillness that naturally makes one slow down, lower their voice, and listen to the stories of the past.
The site covers an area of about 2,500m², located in Don Dien village, Yen Cuong commune. The construction was built by the French colonists before 1938 with a system of prisons, watchtowers, and information houses. When the Vietnamese revolutionary movement intensified, this place was turned into a prison for political prisoners. The old garrison was expanded, additional walls and guard posts were erected, tightening control to imprison patriots.
Students visiting Cang Bac Me (Source: Vietnam National Tourism Administration)
From 1938 to 1942, the French colonists twice brought about 300 political prisoners to be detained here. They were transferred from notorious prisons such as Son La Prison, Hoa Lo Prison, and Con Dao Prison. Among them were many steadfast communist soldiers like Xuan Thuy, Tran Cung, Nguyen Hong…
In the harsh climate of the highlands, lacking food and being forced to work hard like brick making, lime burning, stone carrying, and construction… the soldiers still maintained their will, turning the prison into a “revolutionary school.” It was in such a brutal circumstance that the spirit of solidarity and belief in independence was strongly nurtured.
The image of Cang Bac Me historical site (Source: HA GIANG AMAZING TOUR)
At the end of 1945, along with the victory of the local uprising for power, Cang Bac Me was liberated. By 1992, this place was officially recognized as a national historical site – a milestone affirming its immense historical and educational value.
Today, standing among the moss-covered walls and the old foundations marked by time, visitors not only explore an ancient structure but also touch upon memories. Sunlight filters through the tree canopy, casting over the gray stone walls, creating a scene that is both ancient and sacred. Many visitors come here not only to learn about history but also to capture artistic photos in the solemn space full of memories.
The famous historical site Cang Bac Me in Ha Giang (Source: SinhTour)
Cang Bac Me has now become a familiar “red address” in the journeys back to the roots. Schools in the area regularly organize visits for students to learn and listen to explanations, helping history become more vivid and relatable instead of just dry pages in books. The stories of patriotism and the silent sacrifices of our ancestors resonate in the mountainous space, leaving a deep sense of gratitude and pride in the hearts of the youth.
Not only holding historical value, Cang Bac Me also enriches the tourism map of Ha Giang. The combination of the deep green nature of the Gam River and the solemnity of the site creates a stop that is both emotionally rich and thought-provoking.
There are places that amaze us with their beauty, and there are places that leave us speechless with their history. Cang Bac Me is a place that embodies both – a space that preserves revolutionary memories by the emerald Gam River, so that everyone who leaves carries with them a deep sense of pride and gratitude for the struggle of the Vietnamese nation.
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Source: Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Vietnam National Tourism Administration