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Phu Son Prison Camp, also known as Labor Camp 2, is located right next to Phu Hai Camp and was built by the French colonialists in 1916. Closely linked to the bloody history of Con Dao prison, it once held courageous patriotic fighters during the resistance war.
Phu Son Prison Camp, also known as Labor Camp 2.
The unique architecture and harsh conditions of the prison.
Phu Son Camp was one of the notorious prisons, having held thousands of prisoners, mostly those who participated in the resistance movement.
The architecture of Phu Son prison camp was designed in a classical Western style with thick walls, stone cells, sturdy iron doors, and a strict security system. Each cell, though small, cramped, and cold, held tragic historical stories. The forced labor, torture, and harsh conditions in which prisoners were confined led to the deaths of many at the hands of the brutal colonialists.
The prison cells were also cleverly arranged, hidden behind a thick wall.
Inside Phu Son prison camp, the cells were not only places where prisoners were confined, but also witnesses to countless tragic scenes: from torture and suffering to tenacious uprisings. The rough, cracked walls seem to still retain the sounds of pain and the echoing screams from the past.
Everything has been tinged with the passage of time.
Phu Son Prison Camp was a notorious prison, where numerous revolutionary fighters, communists, and political figures from North and Central Vietnam were held. Despite being imprisoned in harsh conditions, these fighters maintained their integrity and refused to succumb to the enemy's torture. The prison became a unique battlefield, where they relentlessly fought to defend their ideals and regain their freedom. It witnessed many uprisings by political prisoners, including the "Autumn Uprising" of 1970, which involved over 4,000 prisoners.
Earlier, in the spring of 1935, right in this campyard, comrades Pham Van Dong, Nguyen Van Linh, Nguyen Kim Cuong, and many others successfully staged the play "Napoleon." This event was not only a cultural and entertainment activity but also carried profound diplomatic significance, affirming the courage and intelligence of the communists. The respect shown by the French prison guards towards the prisoners somewhat softened the brutality of the prison.
The prisoners confined here were covered in sores and wasted away from lack of sunlight, fresh air, and nutrition.
It was here, under the light of Ho Chi Minh's ideology, that talents like Nguyen Van Cu, Pham Van Dong, Le Duan, and Nguyen An Ninh united and became staunch communists, wholeheartedly serving the Fatherland. That is why Phu Son camp is also known as the "Communist Nursery."
Historical sites are closely linked to cultural heritage.
Phu Son Camp, an integral part of the Con Dao prison complex, holds immense historical value. It is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people through the wars of liberation, where revolutionary fighters endured countless hardships but remained steadfast in their fight to the very last breath.
During the period 1951-1953, this place held groups of prisoners of war brought from North and Central Vietnam.
Today, Phu Son Camp is not only a historical site but also a fascinating destination for those who love to learn about the nation's past. For history enthusiasts, Phu Son Camp is a must-visit destination to reflect on what has passed and honor the invaluable sacrifices of previous generations.
Nguyen Hong (35 years old, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City) shared: "A visit here will be a journey back in time to better understand a period full of hardship and sacrifice of our ancestors. Standing before the cold walls, seemingly still echoing with cries of lament, will give visitors a glimpse into the harshness of history and the resilience of the Vietnamese people."
Inside a prison cell
The kitchen and infirmary remain intact.
Phu Son camp grounds
