Con Dao Prison - Tiger Cage Prison
Tiger Cage Prison, also known as Con Dao Prison, is recognized as one of the largest and oldest prisons in Vietnam. Located in the Con Dao archipelago in Ba Ria Vung Tau province, this prison was established in 1940 and has played a significant role in Vietnam's tumultuous history.
Photo : wikipedia.org
Over its 85 years of operation, this facility has held tens of thousands of revolutionary soldiers and political prisoners. It served as a symbol of colonial oppression during the French colonial period and the Vietnam War.
Tiger Cage Prison is divided into two main zones, each comprising two rows of approximately twenty stalls, featuring iron bars above. Guard corridors were designed for the oversight and mistreatment of prisoners. Additionally, the prison includes around sixty open-air rooms, referred to as 'sunlit rooms,' intended for prisoners to sunbathe or endure punishment. Another section, known as the tiger cages, consists of cramped cells measuring only 1.45 meters in width.
Photo : khamphacondao.com
In this prison, activities such as eating and sleeping occurred in the same confined spaces, leading to severe malnutrition and suffering among inmates. Many who were confined in these inhumane conditions faced starvation, a testament to the severe trials imposed upon them, recognized as some of the most extreme forms of torture in history.
Useful Information
- Location: Con Dao Prison, Con Dao, Vung Tau
- Best for: Adults, History Buffs
- Entrance: N/A
- Hours: 9:00am - 5:00pm
- Distance to city center: 1.3km (0.8 mi)
Con Son Island
The biggest island of Con Dao archipelago, and the only inhabited, Con Son island is famed for its pristine nature and the hospitality of people. Not only holding the nice bit, the island also carries the dark past of what is called “Hell on Earth” period.
Phi Yen Temple
Phi Yen temple is also known as An Son shrine and was first built in 1785 as a place to worship Madam Phi Yen (Le Thi Cam) the concubine of Lord Nguyen Anh.
Nhat Beach
Nhát Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Con Dao.
