Ly Son Island, a volcanic island off the coast of Vietnam, has become a significant cultural and historical site, now celebrated for housing and displaying the country's two largest reconstructed whale skeletons. These remarkable specimens, estimated to be between 250 and 300 years old, are meticulously preserved and exhibited at the Tan Temple in Dong An Vinh village.
The larger of the two skeletons is an impressive 22 meters (approximately 72 feet) in length, while the smaller one measures 18 meters (around 59 feet). Each skeleton is a testament to the giants of the sea, comprising around 50 vertebrae, 28 ribs, and the formidable skull. The painstaking restoration project, completed in 2022, was a crucial undertaking to safeguard these invaluable cultural artifacts for future generations.
The Tan Temple has transformed into a thriving tourist destination, drawing approximately 150,000 visitors in 2024. This surge in tourism underscores the island's growing appeal and the significance of maritime culture in Vietnam. The initiative not only preserves a unique aspect of the nation's heritage but also actively promotes sustainable tourism, allowing visitors to connect with Vietnam's rich natural and cultural tapestry.