The Đại Đoàn Kết Square (Quảng trường Đại Đoàn Kết), meaning “Great Unity Square,” stands as the cultural and political heart of Pleiku City, Gia Lai Province. This expansive public space not only serves as a gathering point for local residents but also acts as a significant monument symbolizing the unity of the Vietnamese people, particularly the ethnic groups of the Central Highlands.
Architecture and Symbolic Significance
The square’s design powerfully conveys the spirit of national solidarity and reverence.
Ho Chi Minh Statue: The most prominent feature is the colossal bronze statue of President Hồ Chí Minh. The statue stands majestically, facing the Western Highlands people, symbolizing the love and respect the people hold for the national leader. The entire monument is a focal point, drawing visitors and locals alike.
The Bas-Relief: Behind the statue, an enormous stone bas-relief stretches across the square. This relief depicts the vast mountains and forests of the Central Highlands, interwoven with images of the daily life and cultural activities of the ethnic minority groups, including their traditional communal houses (nhà rông) and farming practices.
Gong Ensemble: The square proudly displays a large collection of gongs, which Guinness Vietnam recognized as the largest gong set in the country. This impressive display highlights the profound cultural importance of the Cồng Chiêng Tây Nguyên (Central Highlands Gong Culture), a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Community Life and Green Space
Beyond its monumental structures, Đại Đoàn Kết Square functions as a vital public green space for the city.
The Green Lung: The square encompasses a vast area featuring over 2,000 varieties of trees and extensive, neatly manicured lawns. This abundance of greenery establishes the square as a welcome “green lung” in the urban center, providing a fresh, open environment.
Public Gathering Point: Locals frequently use the square for daily activities. You will often see families enjoying strolls, groups exercising, and children playing, especially in the cool hours of the early morning and late afternoon. Furthermore, the square hosts major provincial and national cultural festivals, political events, and economic exhibitions.
Nearby Attractions: Its central location positions the square close to other important landmarks. For example, it is near the Bảo Tàng Hồ Chí Minh với Các Dân Tộc Tây Nguyên (Ho Chi Minh Museum with the Central Highlands Ethnic Groups) and the Bảo Tàng Cổ Vật Gia Lai (Gia Lai Ancient Artifacts Museum), making it an easy starting point for a cultural tour.
Visitor Information and Experience
Visiting the square is easy and offers a chance to connect with Pleiku’s civic spirit.
Admission and Access: There is no fee to enter the square, and it remains open to the public 24 hours a day. Its location at 124 Lê Lợi is highly central, ensuring easy access via taxi, motorbike, or walking from most downtown accommodations.
Recommended Visit Time: The best time to visit is during sunrise or sunset, when the light beautifully illuminates the statues and the cool atmosphere encourages leisurely walks. Visit in the early evening to observe local life and the square’s floodlights illuminating the majestic monument.
Respectful Conduct: Visitors should maintain a respectful demeanor, as the square is considered a solemn cultural and political symbol. Avoid climbing on the monuments and dress appropriately if visiting the nearby museum or during formal events.
