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| Vinh Long is renowned as the “Land of Orchards” and a significant producer of ceramics and bricks. Photo: Cao Ky Nhan |
Located in the scenic Southwest region, Mang Thit brick village in Vinh Long spans approximately 30km and is a historical hub for traditional craft. The village attracts visitors with its red kilns and rows of bricks set against the picturesque natural landscape.
Vinh Long, known as the largest and most reputable province for brick production in the Mekong River Delta region, is often referred to as the “red kingdom” by the locals.
In the past, Mang Thit thrived as a traditional craft village. However, the transportation system limitations led to most brick and ceramic products being transported by boat to other regions.
Today, only a few kilns in the village remain operational. Once known as a brick kingdom, the village has transformed into a popular destination for tourists and photographers.
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| Mang Thit stretches along the banks of various rivers – Co Chien river, Cai Nhum river, Thay Cai canal and straight paved highways in Mang Thit District, Vinh Long Province. Photo: Cao Ky Nhan |
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| The lives of the locals revolve around the red bricks and burning kilns. Photo: Cao Ky Nhan |
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| The kilns along the Thay Cai canal offer a mesmerizing sight. Source: NDO |
Visitors can embark on a scenic journey along the Thay Cai Canal, where they can admire the beautiful landscape created by countless old kilns resembling miniature pyramids on the canal’s banks.
The rivers in Mang Thit flow from Tien river (Front river) and Hau river (Back river), enriching the land with fertile silt each year. This abundance of sediment nourishes the primary red soil and contributes significantly to the local economy.
While strolling along the Co Chien River, tourists will encounter egg-shaped brick kilns standing alongside factories. These kilns not only serve as production facilities but also attract tourists with their unique architectural charm.
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| Vinh Long’s bricks are highly sought after for their use of local red clay. Photo: Cao Ky Nhan |
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| Building a kiln requires the hard work of skilled craftsmen. Photo: Pham Tri Nhan |
The village offers a wide range of handmade pottery, including vases, pots, jars, bas-reliefs, paintings, and statues.
To visit the kilns, visitors can take a boat down the Co Chien river from Vinh Long city center, covering a distance of approximately 8km. Alternatively, visitors can combine road and waterway transportation to reach Mang Thit.
From Vinh Long city center, head towards Fourteen September and take the DT902 road after crossing the Dinh Khao ferry. After around 8km, visitors can embark on a train at Thay Cai canal to reach the pottery village.
Recognizing the potential threat to the brick kilns, the Vinh Long provincial authorities have undertaken a project titled “Mang Thit Contemporary Heritage” to preserve this valuable open-air treasure. The project highlights the historical development of the region over the past century, showcasing its unique architectural heritage and traditional craftsmanship.
The communities of Nhon Phu and My Phuoc in Mang Thit district house the majority of brick production facilities in the area. With their skilled hands, local craftsmen create essential products using simple red clay, supporting numerous rural laborers and contributing to the construction of countless houses and architectural wonders across the country.
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| Various stages of the red brick production process in Vinh Long. Source: NDO |
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