Millennium-old well network bears unique culture of Cham group

Beyond just an arterial irrigation channel, the ancient well network in Gio An commune in Gio Linh district, Quang Tri province, holds a great deal of architectural and cultural value for the Cham ethnic people.

According to archaeologists, the wells of Gio An are unique for their multi-component structure.

They were built at the end of the New Stone Age, 5,000 years ago, with large stones arranged in a meticulous manner.

The wells are a vivid illustration of the Cham people’s talent in exploiting underground water resources for daily use.

The well network is located at the foot of basalt hills to reach aquifers. The Cham people’s reservoir-forming techniques have remained a mystery, as the ancient wells never dry up even in extreme drought. They are still viewed as treasures of the people of Gio An.

Water for irrigating their fields also comes from the reservoir.

Although life has changed in Gio An commune over the years, the ancient wells remain the primary source of water for local residents.

For generations, the well network has been properly preserved, as local people view them not only as a source of water but also as a symbol of local cultural values./.

VNA