Than Cong Fortress – Cat Ba

The Than Cong Fortress is not only a historically significant structure but also an impressive tourist spot with its pristine, majestic, and poetic scenery in Cat Hai district, Cat Ba island.

For anyone traveling to Cat Ba, immersing oneself in the cool seawater, then visiting the Cat Ba National Park, or sailing through Lan Ha Bay on a boat, and visiting Monkey Island are likely the first choices. If you’re adventurous and seeking thrills, try conquering the rocky cliffs on Cat Ba sea. If you’re interested in traditional crafts, visit the fish sauce production area in Cat Hai, where you’ll find many interesting insights. In recent years, a historical and cultural site that many people have marked in their exploration of Cat Ba island is Point 177.

Point 177 is located in the Cat Ba tourist area, Cat Hai district, Hai Phong city. This relic area is also known as Than Cong Fortress, situated atop a hill at an elevation of 177 meters above sea level. It holds strategic importance at the gateway to the East Sea and bears witness to the fierce battles against the French and the Americans.

Here took place the fiery first artillery battle between our army and the French warships, contributing to the glorious achievements of the Cat Ba army and people, excellently fulfilling the task of safeguarding the homeland’s frontiers, thereby inscribing heroic pages in the nation’s history.

The impressive military structure of the Cat Ba defense line still preserves historical evidence, including two large coastal artillery guns, an observation post system, and underground bunkers built since the 1940s. Alongside are giant tunnel sections with vaulted ceilings delving deep into the mountains, providing ample space for entire groups to pass through. The tunnels lead directly to the management area and sturdy concrete bunkers. These structures remain almost intact despite wars and the passage of time.

Of particular note, the two coastal artillery guns are highlights of the tourist route, attracting the attention and curiosity of visitors. According to the tour guide at the Than Cong Fortress tourist site, at that time, the French transported three Than Cong guns: 1, 2, 3 to Hai Phong. Then, each part of the gun was pulled up the mountain by human power before being assembled for completion.

After the success of the August Revolution, the French withdrew. Before leaving, they destroyed all the fuses to deactivate the guns. However, with their ingenuity, our troops later reused these guns by improvising fuses from nails, achieving a significant victory by sinking an enemy warship.

Officially opened to visitors on June 13, 2010, the Than Cong Fortress is not only a historically significant structure but also an impressive tourist spot during the autumn-winter season, with its pristine yet majestic and poetic scenery. Standing in this land of sea and sky, mountain and ocean, visitors can admire the unique beauty bestowed by nature on this pearl island while enjoying the pure, mineral-rich waters of the northeastern sea of the Fatherland.