Con Dao is not only a place of pristine natural beauty but also a land filled with deep spiritual significance. Although the island was once known as the “hell on earth” during more than a century of colonial imprisonment, today it has become a sacred destination where thousands of visitors come to pay tribute, reflect, and seek peace. The remnants of the prison system, the heroic stories of revolutionaries, and the solemn spiritual sites together create a unique atmosphere found nowhere else in Vietnam.
Hang Duong Cemetery – Honoring the Fallen Heroes
For most travelers, the first spiritual stop in Con Dao is Hang Duong Cemetery, the final resting place of more than 20,000 revolutionaries, political prisoners, and patriots imprisoned from 1862 to 1975.
Covering nearly 20 hectares and surrounded by casuarina forests, the cemetery holds four main sections (A, B, C, D), including the graves of national heroes such as Vo Thi Sau, Le Hong Phong, and Nguyen An Ninh.
Despite the island’s tragic past, the atmosphere at Hang Duong today is peaceful and deeply moving, filled with incense smoke and the footsteps of visitors paying their respects.
The Grave of Vo Thi Sau
Located in Zone C of Hang Duong Cemetery, the grave of Vo Thi Sau is one of the most visited spiritual sites on the island. Symbolizing courage, sacrifice, and purity of heart, her resting place is believed to be especially sacred.
Visitors come day and night to offer incense and prayers, believing that she blesses those who are sincere and compassionate.
Con Dao Prison System – A Testament to History
Although not a traditional spiritual site, the Con Dao Prison System is an essential stop on any spiritual journey. For 113 years, places such as the Tiger Cages, Phu Hai Prison, the Cow Shed, Ma Thien Lanh Bridge, and the Lime Kiln were used to detain and torture Vietnamese revolutionaries.
Thousands of prisoners endured unimaginable suffering here, and many lost their lives. Walking through these haunting spaces today allows visitors to better understand the resilience, bravery, and unbreakable spirit of those who fought for national independence.
Nui Mot Pagoda (Van Son Tu)
Standing atop Nui Mot Mountain, Nui Mot Pagoda offers one of the most peaceful viewpoints in Con Dao. Originally built in 1964 to serve families of soldiers and officials on the island, the pagoda is now a cherished cultural and spiritual site.
Visitors come to light incense, pray for peace and blessings, and enjoy the panoramic views of Con Dao’s mountains, sea, and forests. From early morning to late afternoon, the pagoda is filled with the sound of chanting and the footsteps of pilgrims.
Phi Yen Shrine (An Son Shrine)
Another significant spiritual landmark is the Phi Yen Shrine, dedicated to Lady Phi Yen—also known as Le Thi Riem—whose story of loyalty, virtue, and sacrifice has been passed down for generations.
According to local belief, Lady Phi Yen and her young son, Prince Cai, have manifested many times to warn the people of looming dangers and bless those who seek protection.
For this reason, the shrine is almost never without incense smoke. Visitors come to pray for peace, prosperity, and good fortune, making it one of the most important spiritual sites in Con Dao.
