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Introduction to Phu Loc Tower

Phu Loc Tower is located in An Nhon Bac Ward, Gia Lai Province, about 3 km northeast of Do Ban Citadel – the former capital of the Champa Kingdom. This ancient Champa tower dates back to the 12th century and was recognized as a national architectural and artistic monument in 1995.

Besides its common name, Phu Loc Tower, local people also call it Thoc Loc, Phuc Loc, or Phuoc Loc. In French records, the monument is referred to as Tour d’Or (Golden Tower).

Historically, Gia Lai was once the capital region of the Champa Kingdom from the 11th to the 15th centuries. During this period, a prolonged war between Champa and the Khmer Empire (from the 12th to the early 13th centuries) took place, with most events occurring in this area. As a result, Khmer artistic influences are especially evident in Champa architecture and sculpture in Gia Lai. Researchers have noted that Khmer features are prominent in the Binh Dinh style towers, including Phu Loc Tower.

One of the key Khmer influences on Phu Loc Tower, as well as other Champa towers in Gia Lai, is the construction of towers on elevated hills in the “temple–mountain” style and the use of stone in architecture. From a distance, the tower appears solitary and ancient, but upon reaching its base and looking outward, visitors can view the surrounding landscape along with other Champa monuments: to the south lies Banh It Tower, to the southwest are Do Ban Citadel and Canh Tien Tower, and further away is Duong Long Tower.

Traces at the site indicate that the hill was terraced into two levels to accommodate multiple structures surrounding the central tower on the summit – the only tower still remaining today.

In addition to the typical features of traditional Champa towers in form, structure, and materials, Phu Loc Tower is a representative example of the Binh Dinh style. Built on a high hill, its outer walls are decorated with protruding pilasters left plain, with vertical panels in between. The false doors are composed of three sections and three tiers, with high-rising arches, and stone is used extensively in architectural decoration. These elements together create a majestic, monumental, and uniquely captivating appearance.

Having stood for nearly a thousand years, despite damage and layers of moss, Phu Loc Tower remains resilient against time. It testifies to the creativity, construction techniques, and architectural excellence of the Cham people, leaving behind one of the most distinctive monuments that enrich humanity’s cultural heritage. Today, it is not only a remarkable historical relic but also an attractive destination for visitors seeking to experience and explore the legendary Champa towers.