Nui Do, Thanh Hoa: a famous archaeological site for thousands of years.

1. About Nui Do Thanh Hoa

Nui Do Thanh Hoa (also known as Qui Son) is located in Dong Tien ward, Thanh Hoa province, and is one of the famous scenic spots associated with the Song Ma and Song Chu rivers. From the center of Thanh Hoa, tourists can travel along Dai Lo Le Loi, turn into Duong Hung Vuong, pass through Ba Trieu, Dinh Huong, Dong Tho routes, reach the former UBND of Thieu Khanh ward (now Dong Tien ward), and then turn right to reach the mountain area. The journey, though not long, brings a feeling of relaxation as you gradually enter the lush green mountainous space of the Thanh Hoa region.

Do Mountain is located in Dong Tien ward, Thanh Hoa province. (Source: Collected)

Do Mountain is about 158 m high, with an average slope of 200 to 250 m. The mountain is located at the confluence of the Ma River and the Chu River, which was once likened to “Luong Ma twin sails”, referring to the image of two twin sails drifting on the water, creating one of the most poetic landscapes in the Thanh region.

This mountain occupies a large part of the Ban A mountain range and possesses a unique geological structure rarely found elsewhere. The most outstanding feature is that the rock layer at Do Mountain is much harder than ordinary limestone. Since ancient times, our ancestors discovered and utilized this characteristic to craft tools such as hand axes and adzes, contributing to the community's survival through the Bronze Age and laying the foundation for the brilliant Dong Son culture.

2. Unique archaeological value of Do Mountain, Thanh Hoa

2.1. Journey of site discovery

Do Mountain is not only a famous landscape of the Thanh region but also one of the most unique archaeological sites in Vietnam. The journey of site discovery here began in the 1960s, when archaeologists conducted excavations and discovered over 2,500 stone artifacts of various shapes, sizes, and uses. These discoveries opened a deep insight into the labor life and culture of prehistoric inhabitants.

Discovery of many artifacts of prehistoric residents at Nui Do. (Source: Compilation)

During the research process, archaeologists also recorded three typical areas: Yen Ngua Hill, Chan Tien Islet, and Bac Bep Cave. These are locations that preserve traces of daily life, tool making, and ancient hearths. Every layer of soil, every stone slab at Nui Do holds a story about the evolutionary journey of humans, contributing to clarifying an important period in the cultural history of Vietnam.

2.2. Significance of ancient stone tools and the life of primitive people at Nui Do

The stone tools discovered at Nui Do Thanh Hoa, such as hand axes, pestles, and adzes, are not only a testament to the labor life of primitive people but also clearly demonstrate a leap forward in their thinking and crafting skills. From solid stones, people at that time knew how to select, shape, and create forms suitable for each purpose: axes for chopping trees, adzes for scraping or grinding, and pestles for pounding or crushing. These tools clearly reflect the adaptation and creativity of ancient residents in hunting, gathering, and survival amidst harsh nature. Through this, Nui Do has become a vivid testament to the development of intellect and thinking ability of ancient Vietnamese people 30,000 to 40,000 years ago, marking an important turning point in the formation process of the first civilization on Vietnamese land.

3. Experience visiting and exploring Nui Do Thanh Hoa

3.1. Mountain climbing and sightseeing journey at Nui Do

If you love adventures and desire to immerse yourself in wild nature, the trekking journey at Nui Do Thanh Hoa will surely be an unmissable experience. The terrain here is not too rugged, with winding trails amidst rocky cliffs and lush green forest canopies, creating a feeling that is both challenging and poetic. With each step, visitors will clearly feel the change in the air: the higher you go, the fresher and cooler the air becomes, bringing a special sense of relaxation and refreshment.

The average climbing time takes only about 30-45 minutes, suitable even for those who have never trekked before. Just prepare a pair of good grip sports shoes, add a little perseverance and a spirit of exploration, and visitors can completely conquer the peak of Nui Do without encountering too many difficulties. However, there are still rough, slippery rocky sections along the way, so visitors need to be careful and hold firmly onto natural supports. If traveling in a group, don't forget to support each other throughout the journey to make the climb safer, more enjoyable, and more memorable.

3.2. Visit relics of the Can Vuong movement and modern historical evidence

Besides its archaeological value and natural landscape, Nui Do is also associated with heroic historical relics, testifying to the unyielding spirit of the people of Thanh Hoa in the Can Vuong movement against the French colonialists. This place still preserves many sites bearing the imprints of wartime, such as Cot Co rock, a freshwater well, and old military kitchens... These are all relics that evoke memories of a fiery but proud era.

Today, visitors come to Nui Do Thanh Hoa not only to admire the natural scenery but also to listen to stories of the past and feel the patriotic spirit of our ancestors. Each step on the path leading to these relics is a journey back in time, helping us to cherish history more and be proud of the nation's resilient tradition.

3.3. Combine visiting famous attractions in Thanh Hoa

After visiting and learning about Nui Do, visitors can continue their journey to explore other famous destinations to fully appreciate the beauty and cultural depth of this land. Not far from Nui Do is the Ho Citadel, a world cultural heritage site with unique stone architecture and a history of over 600 years. Next, the journey to Tu Thuc Cave takes visitors into a magical space of nature and legend, where the scenery is as if from a fairy realm.

Discover the mystical beauty of Tu Thuc Cave. (Source: Compilation)

If you love history, the Lam Kinh historical site is a must-visit. This is where the merits of hero Le Loi and the resounding Lam Son uprising are recorded. Finally, the trip will be complete when visitors visit Sam Son beach square, where modern life blends with the murmuring sound of the sea waves, bringing a sense of relaxation and peace after exploring the Thanh region, rich in tradition and heritage.

The journey to explore Nui Do Thanh Hoa not only takes visitors back in time to prehistoric cultural relics but also opens up opportunities to feel the beauty of nature and the people of the Thanh region. From primitive stones telling stories of thousands of years to picturesque river and mountain scenery, this place has all the elements of a destination that is both ancient and poetic. If you are looking for a trip with historical depth and a close-to-nature experience, plan your journey to Nui Do Thanh Hoa today to listen to the stories of the past and enjoy the endless beauty of this heritage-rich land.