Ho Chi Minh Square and the Statue of President Ho Chi Minh, located in Duong Dong within the Phu Quoc Special Zone, cover a vast area of 7.45 hectares and stand among the most significant cultural and historical landmarks on the Pearl Island. More than a sightseeing spot, this is a sacred space where visitors can reflect, pay tribute and honor President Ho Chi Minh—Vietnam’s most beloved national leader.
A Monument Filled with Meaning – “The South Is Always in My Heart”
The statue of President Ho Chi Minh rises 20.7 meters high, including:
- 18-meter copper alloy statue
- 0.3-meter copper pedestal
- 2.4-meter natural stone base
The sculpture depicts Uncle Ho with his right hand placed over his heart, symbolizing his iconic message: “The South is always in my heart.” The posture reflects his deep affection for the people and soldiers of southern Vietnam during the nation’s difficult struggle for independence.
Crafted in the traditional bronze-casting village of Y Yen (Nam Dinh Province), the statue captures the dignified and compassionate spirit of President Ho Chi Minh. His face is sculpted with a thoughtful expression, eyes gently gazing southward—an artistic reminder of his lifelong devotion to the southern homeland. The statue’s height blends harmoniously with the island’s open sea-and-sky landscape while keeping the base modest, allowing visitors to approach closely and feel an intimate connection.
The Grand Relief Wall – A Masterpiece Behind the Statue
Behind the statue is an impressive relief wall composed of 484 carved stone panels, serving as a major artistic highlight of the entire complex. The relief has two distinct sides:
- Front Side: Depicts iconic landmarks and regions from the 17th parallel southward—places associated with President Ho Chi Minh’s revolutionary journey. These images recreate his life’s milestones, the locations he visited and the contributions he made across the nation.
- Back Side: Illustrates famous landscapes of Kien Giang Province and Vietnam’s island territories, emphasizing Phu Quoc’s strategic importance and reaffirming the sacred sovereignty of Vietnam—from Sa Vi Cape (Quang Ninh) to Tho Chu Island, the southwesternmost frontier.
This relief is not only a piece of fine art but also a historical narrative carved in stone, helping visitors understand the legacy of President Ho Chi Minh and the significance of Vietnam’s maritime territories.
Ho Chi Minh Exhibition House – A Space Preserving National Memory
Within the square stands the Ho Chi Minh Exhibition House, designed with modern, respectful architecture. It features three main exhibition themes:
- Life and Revolutionary Career of President Ho Chi Minh: Showcasing key milestones from his journey to find a way to save the nation, to his leadership in achieving independence and reunification.
- Uncle Ho’s Love for the People of Southern Vietnam: Highlighting his heartfelt concern, compassion and unwavering attachment to the South—an emotional thread that remained with him throughout his life.
- President Ho Chi Minh and Vietnam’s Maritime Sovereignty: Emphasizing his strategic vision in protecting the nation’s seas and islands, especially the vital position of Phu Quoc and the southwestern archipelago.
The exhibition house serves as an important educational space, inspiring younger generations to appreciate the values of independence, peace and national unity.
A Cultural Symbol & Must-Visit Landmark in Phu Quoc
Today, Ho Chi Minh Square and the Statue of Uncle Ho have become a cultural symbol of Phu Quoc. The imposing figure of Uncle Ho set against the vast ocean sky, together with the grand relief wall portraying Vietnam’s landscapes, creates a profound and meaningful environment. The square attracts countless visitors who come to learn about the nation’s history, pay respects and capture memorable photographs.
For Vietnamese travelers, this is a place to honor the Father of the Nation. For international visitors, it offers a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s cultural identity and historical pride. A visit to Phu Quoc would not be complete without spending time at this sacred, inspiring landmark—where the spirit of President Ho Chi Minh lives on amid the beauty of the sea and sky.
