Gianh Ferry Terminal transformed into a memorial park, reviving memories of the legendary nameless ships

Published On: 23/04/2026

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The Gianh Ferry Terminal National Special Historical Site (Bac Gianh Ward, Quang Tri Province) has recently been renovated and restored through socialized funding, giving it a new, spacious appearance and transforming it into a memorial park to honor those who fell for the independence and freedom of the Fatherland.

Located along the Gianh River, a natural "fortress" bearing the marks of many historical upheavals, the Gianh ferry terminal stands as a poignant and heroic testament to the brutal years of war. During the resistance against the US, the Gianh port area and ferry terminal played a particularly important role, considered a "bottleneck" connecting the North's rear with the South's battlefield.

The boats on the Gianh River in the old days. PHOTO: TL

This was also the starting point of the unmarked ships on the Ho Chi Minh Trail at sea, a strategic transport route for weapons and food supplies to support the South. At the same time, this area connected with the Truong Son Trail on land, forming a continuous logistical network that played a crucial role in the overall victory of the resistance war.

Because of its strategic location, Gianh Port and Gianh Ferry became a "hotbed of fire," enduring fierce attacks from the US Air Force and Navy. On August 5, 1964, the first battle of the Vietnamese Navy took place here, where the local army and people bravely fought to protect this vital transportation route. This victory has gone down in history, becoming a symbol of Vietnamese will and courage.

In 2013, Gianh Ferry Terminals 1 and 2 were recognized as special national historical relics, belonging to the Truong Son Road - Ho Chi Minh Trail system of relics. Recently, Gianh Ferry Terminal 2 has been renovated and upgraded with many new features, creating a solemn memorial space that harmoniously blends historical elements and landscape.

On the banks of the Gianh River, the Gianh Ferry Terminal National Special Monument has taken on a new appearance. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

On National Highway 1, on the north bank of the Gianh River, lies the Gianh 2 Ferry Terminal, a special national historical site that has recently been renovated through socialized funding. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

Previously, the area only had the Gianh River Victory Monument (left). Now, there are many more structures within the overall complex. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

August 5, 1964, marks a milestone: the first battle fought by the Vietnamese Navy, alongside the local army and people, who bravely defended this vital transportation route. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

New trees and mature trees have been planted throughout the nearly 3-hectare grounds, providing shade for the historical site. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

This restoration project involved building a new wooden vessel modeled after the first unmarked ship. The ship is 13.5 meters long, 3.6 meters wide, has a tonnage of 20 tons, a double hull, and is powered by sails. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

The bell-ringing place is located within the historical site. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

The renovated appearance highlights the vibrant values ​​of the historical site. Along with preserving the original elements, this project also includes the construction of a new exhibition hall, temple, and ceremonial building. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

After restoration, the Ferry Terminal 2 site has truly become a unique spiritual tourism and memorial park. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

The main temple is a combination of stone, wood, tiles, and other materials. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

The temple consists of three sections; the central section is dedicated to the ancestors and heroic martyrs who sacrificed their lives throughout history. The temple has become a place of remembrance for those who perished at sea. PHOTO: NGUYEN PHUC

Today, standing before Gianh 2 Ferry Terminal, visitors not only appreciate the beauty of the structure but also feel as if they are touching the heroic memories of the nation. This space has become a "red address" for traditional education , reminding us of the great sacrifices made to achieve the peace we enjoy today.

The "renovation" of historical sites not only demonstrates the principle of "drinking water, remembering the source," but also opens up avenues for promoting historical values ​​in conjunction with tourism development, contributing to creating a cultural and historical highlight for Quang Tri, while spreading a message of peace, independence, and the aspiration for development.

Source: https://www.vietnam.vn/