Phu Quoc Magic Well

The Magic Well, Gieng Ngu, is located 2 km away from An Thoi Ward. It is not only a historical but also mysterious attraction that should not be missed for all visitors to Phu Quoc.

Contents

Location & History
Cultural Significance
Useful Information

Location & History

In the 17th century, while fleeing from the Tay Son troops, Lord Nguyen and his army faced severe thirst due to a lack of fresh water. In a moment of desperation, he raised his sword to the sky and prayed, “If the Almighty still wishes for me to be King, please provide me with food and water!” Miraculously, upon plunging his sword into the ground, a stream of fresh water gushed forth. This remarkable site is known as Gieng Ngu, The King’s Well, or the Magic Well.

Photo: Phu Quoc News

Choosing Phu Quoc as a refuge, Lord Nguyen was able to recover from the conflicts caused by the Tay Son Revolt. This strategic decision allowed him to ultimately defeat the Tay Son forces and gain control over Saigon-Gia Dinh in the subsequent years.

Cultural Significance

The beautiful landscapes surrounding the island, with lakes framed by lush mountains, create a serene experience for visitors. Nestled in the hills is a small temple and a pink stone armchair, often referred to as the King’s Armchair. As you make your way to the Magic Well, you'll encounter a stele inscribed with “The King’s Sword,” marking the spot where water first erupted after the sword struck the earth.

The Magic Well is frequently included in tour itineraries for the Southern Island of Phu Quoc. Visitors can choose to book a guided tour or explore independently by renting a motorbike. Please refer to the updated map below for further details on accessing this historical site.