Thich Quang Duc Monument: A cultural spot on Saigon map

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Ho Chi Minh City’s famous Thich Quang Duc Monument (Source: Collected)

Your Vietnam travel journey will not be complete without a trip to the iconic Thich Quang Duc Monument in Ho Chi Minh City. Situated in District 3, this revered site offers profound insights into the historical heritage of the nation. You can discover all the essential details about this landmark, from its historical significance and highlights to nearby attractions, in this article.

1. Where is Thich Quang Duc Monument?

The Thich Quang Duc Monument, located at the intersection of Nguyen Dinh Chieu and Cach Mang Thang Tam Streets in Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, is a significant historical site of the city. This famous landmark can be easily accessed from the famous Ben Thanh Market. 

Visitors can reach this iconic landmark by various convenient means of transportation, including taxis, motorbikes, and buses. The most common route is to travel along Le Thanh Ton Street and into Pham Hong Thai Street, and then, at the intersection, take the second exit onto Cach Mang Thang Tam Street.

There are several ways for visitors to get to the well-known Thich Quang Duc Monument (Source: Collected)

Discover: The Ho Chi Minh City map will prepare you for an exciting adventure!

2. Why was Thich Quang Duc Monument built?

The Thich Quang Duc Monument was built to commemorate the courageous actions of Thich Quang Duc, a Buddhist monk who self-immolated to protest the repressive regime of President Ngo Dinh Diem. During the historic Buddha’s birthday in 1963, in the face of brutal repression by the Ngo Dinh Diem government, Venerable Thich Quang Duc burned his body to protest the oppression and injustice. His sacrifice ignited a spirit of resistance among the Buddhist community and the people, fueling the revolutionary movement in the South and leading to significant victories. 

In remembrance of his selfless act, the Thich Quang Duc Monument project in Ho Chi Minh City was started in November 2007 and completed on September 17, 2010. The monument serves as a symbol of recognition and the highest tribute to Venerable Thich Quang Duc’s noble sacrifice for the nation and the Buddhist faith.

The monument honors the great sacrifice made by Venerable Thich Quang Duc (Source: Collected)

3. The highlights of Thich Quang Duc Monument

Thich Quang Duc Memorial Park is nearly 2,000 square meters wide, with a layout consisting of a lotus pond, walking paths, and some benches for visitors to rest on. In the center of the park is the majestic memorial statue. Behind the statue is a relief depicting Thich Quang Duc’s struggle to protect the Dharma and the nation. In front of the statue is the ceremony yard, all arranged in a harmonious and modern way.

The memorial statue and relief are cast from copper alloy imported from Ukraine and Korea. The statue is 6 meters high and 4 meters in diameter. The relief behind the statue is 3 meters high and 12 meters long, depicting an overview of the history of the revolutionary struggle of Buddhist monks, nuns, and people from all walks of life in the city against the oppressive regime.

The relief behind the monument shows Thich Quang Duc fighting to defend the country and the Dharma (Source: Collected)

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4. Other attractions near Thich Quang Duc Monument

If you are visiting the Thich Quang Duc Monument, don’t miss the chance to explore some of the greatest local sites nearby. Your itinerary will not be complete without the following must-see destinations:

4.1. War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum is a member of the International Network of Museums for Peace (INMP) and the International Council of Museums (ICOM). This museum specializes in researching, collecting, preserving, and displaying evidence of crimes and the consequences of wars of invasion in Vietnam. The War Remnants Museum calls on the public to raise awareness against unjust wars, to protect peace, and to promote solidarity and friendship between people from countries around the world.

Currently, 9 regular exhibitions, many short-term and mobile exhibitions, and receptions, meetings, and exchanges between the public and witnesses of the war are hosted at the War Remnants Museum. It is one of the highlights that attracts both Vietnamese and international visitors.

4.2. Independence Palace

The Independence Palace, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, is a special historical symbol of Vietnam. Not only was this palace the residence and workplace of the President of the Republic of Vietnam prior to the April 30, 1975 event, but it was also a place that witnessed numerous important historical events.

With its unparalleled historical value, the Independence Palace is a living museum of the Vietnam War and the process of national unification. The vestige on the roof of the palace, the flag of the National Front for the Liberation of South Vietnam, is a symbol of national solidarity and the people’s courage and efforts for independence and freedom. The Prime Minister of Vietnam has recognized its special value by ranking it as a Special National Monument.

The Independence Palace witnessed many major historical events in the country (Source: Collected)

4.3. Xa Loi Buddhist Temple

Xa Loi Buddhist Temple, located at No. 89 Ba Huyen Thanh Quan Street, Ward 7, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, was built according to the design of two architects, Tran Van Duong and Do Ba Vinh. This Buddhist temple was completed in 1958 and was the place to worship Buddha relics.

In the main hall, in addition to the Buddha statue created by Bien Hoa Fine Arts School, there is also a golden tower that contains the Buddha relics brought by Mr. Narada Mahathera, a famous Sri Lankan Buddhist monk. The Pali scriptures, transcribing the Buddha’s words on palm leaves, were crafted more than a thousand years ago by the Sri Lankan Sangha. Xa Loi Buddhist Temple is where the funeral of Venerable Thich Quang Duc, who sacrificed himself for the nation and Buddhism, was held.

4.4. Tao Dan Park

Tao Dan Park is located on Truong Dinh Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. With an area of more than 10 hectares, this green oasis is covered with the shade of more than 1,000 trees, many of which are elder trees. This is the reason why Tao Dan is always considered a “green lung” to help the city become greener, cleaner, and more beautiful.

For anyone living in or visiting this beautiful city, Tao Dan Park is perfect for light exercising, having a cozy family picnic, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature. If you are planning a trip to Saigon, don’t forget to stop by here! There are countless interesting things here waiting for you to discover, especially having a glimpse into the daily local way of life!

Tao Dan Park is revered as the city’s “green lung” (Source: Collected)

4.5. Ho Thi Ky Flower Market

Street food on Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, District 10, is one of the things that attracts both tourists and locals alike. Opened from 3 p.m. every day, more than 100 restaurants offer a variety of European, Asian, and other Vietnamese regional dishes. This neighborhood attracts diners with mouth-watering grilled skewers and seafood dishes such as grilled lobster with cheese and grilled squid with salt and chili. The price ranges from 7,000 to 100,000 VND.

Plan your itinerary with this list of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City!

The Thich Quang Duc Monument stands not only as a symbol of Vietnamese religious freedom but also as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who fight for justice and human rights. Through its powerful presence and historical significance, the monument serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of resilience and determination in the face of oppression. As you explore its grounds and learn about its history, take time to reflect on the importance of compassion, tolerance, and the pursuit of peace in our world today.

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