Bom Bo Hamlet recognised as a national historic site

On September 9, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung signed Decision No. 3241/QĐ-BVHTTDL, officially recognising the Bom Bo Hamlet Historical Site as a National Historic Site.

Bom Bo Hamlet today. Photo: Doan Phu

Located in Bom Bo commune, Dong Nai province, Bom Bo Hamlet is not only an attractive tourist destination but also a place that bears important historical imprints of the S’tieng ethnic community. During the resistance war against the U.S. imperialism, the area became known as a revolutionary base, where heroic victories of soldiers and local people were recorded, especially during the Phuoc Long – Dong Xoai Campaign in 1965. Stories of solidarity and courage of local people have been passed down through generations, becoming a source of pride for the community.

The name Bom Bo Hamlet has also gained fame through poetry and music. This was the place where the S’tieng people tirelessly pounded rice to feed the soldiers, making a significant contribution to the nation’s victory. The rhythmic sound of the pestle served as a source of inspiration for many musicians and poets.

Among the works dedicated to Bom Bo Hamlet, the song “The Sound of rice-pounding pestle in Bom Bo Hamlet” by composer Xuan Hong touched countless hearts. The piece praised the patriotism of the Bom Bo people, evoking memories of a heroic and glorious era of the nation.

Members of the S’tieng ethnic community re-enact the movement on rice-pounding to feed the army at the S'tieng Ethnic Culture Preservation Area in Bom Bo Hamlet. Documentary photo

The former Binh Phuoc provincial authorities established the S'tieng Ethnic Culture Preservation Area, featuring many remarkable facilities such as a reception hall, community house, guesthouse, exhibition space for the largest gong and lithophone collection in Viet Nam, an elephant ground, a festival square, as well as electricity and lighting systems.

The recognition of Bom Bo Hamlet as a national historic site is not only significant for its historical value but also helps preserve the cultural heritage of this revolutionary land. It serves as a “red address” for educating future generations in patriotism while promoting and enhancing local tourism.

By: T. Hai

Translated by: My Le - Thu Ha