Can Tho Grand Prison
A somber look into a resilient past.
4.4 ⭐ (95)
Introduction
Can Tho Grand Prison (Khám Lớn Cần Thơ) is a historical site located in the center of Can Tho city. Originally built by French colonists in 1886, it was one of the largest prisons in the Mekong Delta, used to detain Vietnamese revolutionaries and political prisoners. Today, the preserved site serves as a museum, documenting the harsh conditions and resilience of those incarcerated within its walls.
Prison Cells and Recreations
The prison features numerous cells where visitors can see unsettling life-sized models recreating the brutal conditions and torture methods endured by inmates. These displays offer a raw and unfiltered perspective on the prisoners' daily suffering and unbreakable spirit.
Underground Escape Tunnels
A significant feature of the prison is the display showcasing the ingenuity of the prisoners. Here you can learn about the secret tunnels that were dug by inmates in their daring attempts to escape the facility's oppressive confines.
The Central Courtyard and Banyan Tree
The main courtyard is dominated by a large, old banyan tree that has stood for over a century. This tree is a silent witness to the prison's entire history, having watched over generations of prisoners who passed through the gates.
Exhibition of Artifacts
The museum section displays a collection of artifacts from the period, including prisoners' personal belongings, rudimentary tools they crafted, and documents related to the prison's operation. Each item tells a personal story of survival and resistance.
Getting there
From Ninh Kieu Pier to Can Tho Grand Prison (approx. 1.5 km):
🚗 Taxi: 5-10 mins | 30,000 - 50,000 VND ~ $1.20 - $2.00 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Gojek): 5-10 mins | 25,000 - 40,000 VND ~ $1.00 - $1.60 USD
🛵 Motorbike: 5 mins
🚶 Walking: 15-20 mins. A pleasant and straightforward walk through the city center.
⚠️ The prison is centrally located and easily accessible. Walking from Ninh Kieu Wharf is pleasant and safe, allowing you to see more of the city center. Taxis and Grab are readily available.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- Notes: The prison remains open year-round, but it's always wise to check for potential closures during national holidays.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- All Visitors: Free Admission
- Notes: There is no charge to enter the historical site.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April for more comfortable weather. Plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat, especially as some areas are outdoors.
⌚ Recommended duration
- Allow approximately 45 minutes to one hour for a comprehensive visit. The site is compact and can be explored relatively quickly.
Tips from locals
Local tips
👗 As this is a place of historical significance and suffering, it is important to dress respectfully. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect for the site's history and the memory of the prisoners.
🗺️ The prison's central location makes it easy to incorporate into a walking tour of Can Tho's main attractions. Consider visiting it before or after a stroll along Ninh Kieu Wharf, a visit to the Can Tho Museum, or exploring the nearby Ong Pagoda.
💡 You can hire a local guide at the entrance for a small fee. While the exhibits have some English signage, a guide can provide much deeper context and share detailed stories that bring the prison's heavy history to life.
Be aware
⚠️ The exhibits are explicit and designed to be educational, not entertaining. The life-sized mannequins in scenes of confinement and torture can be very distressing for some visitors. Be mindful of the emotional impact this visit may have.
FAQs
Is Can Tho Grand Prison free to enter?
Yes, admission to the Can Tho Grand Prison is free for all visitors.
What are the opening hours of Can Tho Grand Prison?
The prison is open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and again from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Where is the prison located?
It is located at 8 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu District, right in the center of Can Tho city.
What is the history behind the prison?
It was built by the French colonialists in 1886 to imprison and torture Vietnamese revolutionaries and political opponents in the Mekong Delta.
Is Can Tho Grand Prison suitable for children?
Due to the graphic and realistic depictions of torture and hardship, it is generally not recommended for young children or those sensitive to such content.
How long should I spend at the prison?
A typical visit takes between 45 and 60 minutes.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, visitors are expected to wear respectful attire that covers shoulders and knees.
Can I take photos inside?
Photography is generally permitted, but it's important to be respectful and mindful of the somber atmosphere of the site.
What is the prison's Vietnamese name?
The official Vietnamese name is "Di Tích Lịch Sử Khám Lớn Cần Thơ", often shortened to "Khám Lớn Cần Thơ".
What other attractions are nearby?
The prison is very close to other popular sites in Can Tho, including Ninh Kieu Wharf, Ong Pagoda, and the Can Tho Museum.
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