The Archaeological Site of Champa Ceramic Production at Gò Cây Me, Bình Định: Results from the 2017 and 2018 Excavations

Do Truong Giang* and Lai Van Toi

This paper presents the archaeological findings from the 2017 and 2018 excavations at Gò Cây Me, a major Champa ceramic production centre in Bình Định province, Vietnam. Excavations across 283m² uncovered 11 tubular-type kilns and yielded over 62,000 artifacts, including glazed ceramics, stoneware, architectural materials, and production tools. The kilns, constructed from clay mixed with sherds or saggars, feature a distinct three-part structure: a firing chamber, kiln body, and rear flue system. Technical and stylistic analyses reveal a profound Đại Việt influence on Gò Cây Me’s production, specifically from the Trần Dynasty (14th century). This cross-cultural technological transfer is evident in the wheel-forming, anti-sticking, stacking, and firing techniques, alongside signature decorative elements like iron-brown painted turtle shell and crescent moon motifs on white-glazed wares. Chronologically, the site's operation spans from the early 14th century to its termination around 1471, closely aligning with the historical dynamics of Trần-Champa diplomacy. The widespread distribution of Gò Cây Me ceramics—recovered from domestic burials, military fortifications, temple complexes, and various Southeast Asian maritime sites—underscores their historical significance. These products not only fulfilled local domestic and religious demands but also actively participated in broader Asian maritime trade networks, offering vital insights into the technological crosscurrents and commercial vitality of the Cham civilization.