Phu Quoc Prison Memorial: An Unmissable Spiritual Destination on the Pearl Island

The Phu Quoc Prison Memorial is a work of spiritual and historical significance, located within the Phu Quoc POW Camp Historical Relic Site (formerly known as Coconut Tree Prison), in An Thoi Ward, Phu Quoc. This is a place to commemorate and recognize the sacrifice of more than 4,000 revolutionary soldiers and prisoners of war who fell under brutal conditions of detention and torture during the French colonial and US imperialist eras in two resistance wars.

The relic was recognized as a national historical relic in 1995 and upgraded to a special national relic in 2014. The entire area includes many important components such as: the central memorial (featuring the iconic Fist Monument), the martyrs' cemetery, the reconstructed prison camp area, and the artifact display house. Not only reflecting a fierce historical period, this place also clearly demonstrates the resilient willpower and indomitable spirit of Vietnamese revolutionary soldiers under extraordinarily harsh conditions.

Phu Quoc Prison originated from the French colonial period. During the 1949–1953 period, the French colonialists used the Cay Dua (An Thoi) area to establish the Cay Dua Camp, holding around 14,000 prisoners of war. In 1955, the Republic of Vietnam administration took over and built the Cay Dua Reformatory Camp.

In 1967, with US support, this area was expanded into the Phu Quoc Communist Prisoner of War Camp covering over 400 hectares with 12 detention zones, becoming the largest POW camp in South Vietnam at the time. Between 1967 and 1973, it held over 40,000 prisoners of war, mainly revolutionary cadres, soldiers, and patriotic citizens. Over 4,000 people died due to harsh torture, with many methods documented. Following the 1973 Paris Peace Accords, prisoners were returned and the prison ceased operation.

After 1975, local authorities and people gathered remains and built a martyrs' cemetery for commemoration. In 2013, the Memorial was inaugurated at Sim Hill—the site of the former prisoner graveyard. In 2014, the entire relic site was classified as a special national relic, becoming a valuable location for sightseeing and historical education.

Phu Quoc Prison not only reflects the harshness of war but is also clear proof of the resilient spirit of the Vietnamese nation. It was once the central POW camp of the Republic of Vietnam, where various forms of detention and interrogation were used to extract information from prisoners.

Under conditions of deprivation, cramped spaces, and strict control systems, prisoners still maintained their will to fight through various forms such as organizing study groups, maintaining their stance, and finding ways to escape. These efforts demonstrated an enduring spirit and a sense of responsibility toward the country. After being released, many continued to participate in building and developing the nation. Today, the relic site holds not only historical value but also profound educational significance. It helps future generations better understand the difficult periods of the nation, thereby gaining a fuller awareness of the value of peace and independence.

The memorial features a unique design covering an area of over 12,000 m² on Sim Hill. On both sides are two 5-meter-high wave structures painted sky blue, symbolizing the sea and islands of Phu Quoc as well as historical turbulent waves. In the center is a pointed block about 2m high with a hollowed-out human silhouette. At the top is the giant Fist Monument—a symbol of indomitable strength.

The surrounding space includes a peaceful martyrs' cemetery, an artifact display house (over 100 images, 43 original artifacts), a reconstructed prison area (tiger cages, watchtowers, torture rooms), Kien Van Chapel, and vividly rendered wax statues. Together, they create a solemn, reflective atmosphere, harmoniously combining modern architecture and historical values.

The Phu Quoc Prison Martyrs Memorial (also known as the Coconut Tree Prison relic) is not only a historical destination but also a symbol of the nation's indomitable spirit. To make your tour complete and meaningful, you can refer to the detailed information below:

Location & Getting there: No. 350 Nguyen Van Cu Street, An Thoi Ward, about 28 km from Duong Dong center. You can travel by motorbike, taxi, bus, or join a South Phu Quoc Island tour (often combined with Sao Beach, Khem Beach).

Opening hours & Tickets: Completely free. Open morning 8:00 AM–11:30 AM, afternoon 1:30 PM–5:00 PM (subject to slight changes, check beforehand).

Highlight experiences:

• Tour guide telling historical stories (hiring one is recommended for deeper understanding).
• Visit the reconstructed area: tiger cages, solitary confinement rooms, watchtowers.
• Offer incense at the memorial monument and cemetery.
• View the artifact display house and documentary film.
• The peaceful atmosphere on Sim Hill allows you to reflect and take souvenir photos.

Useful tips:

• Wear polite, discreet clothing (avoid offensive attire).
• Spend 1–1.5 hours visiting.
• Bring drinking water, avoid midday sun.
• Combine with a South Island tour to save time.

Going beyond an ordinary sightseeing destination, the Phu Quoc Prison Martyrs Memorial is a sacred spiritual journey, taking us back to heroic historical pages and national roots. Amidst the vibrant and modern pace of life on the Pearl Island, the quiet space here acts as a solemn pause, reminding everyone of the invaluable worth of independence, freedom, and profound gratitude to previous generations. If you are looking for an experience filled with cultural and emotional depth for your trip, take a moment of silence to visit this place. It will surely leave a meaningful mark, making your journey to discover Phu Quoc more complete and memorable than ever.