Origins and Foundation (Late 19th Century – 1915)
The Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture originated from a precious collection gathered during the late 19th century by French archaeologists and scholars of the École Française d’Extrême-Orient (EFEO) across Da Nang, Quang Nam, and neighboring provinces.
In 1902, the proposal to establish a specialized museum for Cham sculpture in Tourane was presented by French archaeologist Henri Parmentier. Construction of the foundational museum structure commenced in 1915 on a verdant hillock overlooking the scenic Han River.
Architectural Splendor and Historical Milestones
Designed by French architects Delaval and Auclair, the building seamlessly marries classic European Gothic lines with indigenous Cham temple tower motifs. Hallmarks include elegant pointed roofs and expansive galleries filled with natural daylight.
- 1919: Official opening under the name “Musée de Tourane”, displaying over 160 remarkable artifacts.
- 1936: First major expansion with two additional exhibition wings.
- 2002: Two-story annex added, expanding exhibition space by nearly 2,000 square meters.
- 2016: Comprehensive historical restoration modernizing galleries and illuminating National Treasures.