Located near the Han River in central Da Nang, the Cham Museum of Sculpture was established to preserve archaeological discoveries from the ancient Champa kingdom, which flourished along the coast of Central Vietnam for centuries. The museum’s origins date to the late 19th century, when Cham sculptures found at temples and archaeological sites across the region began to be collected in Da Nang. Construction of the museum started in 1915, and it officially opened in 1919. Its architecture combines French design influences with features inspired by traditional Cham temples, creating a distinctive setting for the collection.

The museum’s galleries display sculptures in sandstone, terracotta and other materials, including statues of Hindu and Buddhist deities, sacred animals, decorative reliefs and intricately carved temple elements. The collections are organised around archaeological sites and artistic traditions, including My Son, Tra Kieu, Dong Duong and Thap Mam. Among the notable works are the My Son E1 altar and sculptures that demonstrate the sophistication of Cham religious art, from expressive divine figures to elaborate floral and mythological motifs.

Beyond its artistic value, the museum offers an important insight into the spiritual life, craftsmanship and cultural exchanges that shaped Champa civilisation. Its collection connects visitors with the surviving temple complexes of Central Vietnam, particularly the sanctuary of My Son, and helps explain the historical significance of Cham heritage in the region.