(Dân trí) – Cổng Tò Vò được hình thành từ quá trình phun trào của núi lửa hàng triệu năm trước. Tỉnh Quảng Ngãi đã đề nghị Bộ Văn hóa, Thể thao và Du lịch xếp hạng di tích quốc gia đối với thắng cảnh này. On June 27, the People’s Committee of Quang Ngai province submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to classify the To Vo Arch scenic spot (Tay An Vinh village, Ly Son district) as a national monument.
To Vo Arch: A Million-Year-Old Volcanic Wonder

To Vo Arch: A Million-Year-Old Volcanic Wonder
Nestled on Ly Son Island in Quang Ngai province, the To Vo Arch stands as a testament to the powerful forces of nature and the passage of geological time. This unique rock formation is not just a scenic marvel but also a window into the island’s volcanic past, shaped by eruptions that occurred millions of years ago. Its distinctive shape and coastal location have made it a popular destination for tourists and a subject of interest for geologists.
Recognizing its cultural and natural significance, the People’s Committee of Quang Ngai province has recently taken steps to secure its future. On June 27th, they submitted a formal proposal to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, advocating for the classification of the To Vo Arch as a national monument. This proposal aims to protect and preserve this geological treasure for future generations, acknowledging its importance to Vietnam’s natural heritage.
The Geological Marvel of To Vo Arch
The To Vo Arch’s formation is intricately linked to the activity of the Gieng Tien volcano, which erupted countless years ago. During these eruptions, molten lava flowed and solidified, creating a thick layer of basalt rock in the area where the arch now stands. Over millennia, the relentless action of the sea waves eroded the softer rock beneath the basalt, gradually carving out the arch’s distinctive opening.
Measuring approximately 20 meters in length, the arch rises about 4 meters above the abrasion platform. The narrowest point of the arch is roughly 2 meters wide, giving it a delicate yet imposing presence. Its unique shape, reminiscent of a “tò vò” or mud dauber’s nest, lends the arch its name and adds to its distinctiveness. Interestingly, a similar underwater arch was discovered near Dao Be in 2014, suggesting that this type of formation might be more common in the region’s volcanic landscape.
The Geological Marvel of To Vo Arch

The Geological Marvel of To Vo Arch
The To Vo Arch owes its existence to the ancient Gieng Tien volcano. Millions of years ago, volcanic eruptions deposited layers of basalt rock in the area. Over eons, relentless wave action carved away softer rock, eventually creating a hollow space beneath the hardened basalt. This gradual erosion process, driven by the powerful forces of the sea, sculpted the arch we see today.
The arch itself is a sight to behold. It stretches approximately 20 meters in length, with its peak rising about 4 meters above the current sea abrasion surface. The narrowest point of the arch measures around 2 meters, giving it a delicate, yet sturdy appearance. Its unique form resembles a “tò vò” or mud dauber nest, hence the name. Interestingly, a similar underwater arch was discovered near Dao Be in 2014, suggesting a wider prevalence of these volcanic formations in the region’s geological history.
Ly Son Island: A Gem of Volcanic Landscapes and Tourism

Ly Son Island: A Gem of Volcanic Landscapes and Tourism
Ly Son Island, a district of Quang Ngai province, lies approximately 17 nautical miles off the mainland. This island paradise encompasses both Big Island (Ly Son) and Small Island (Dao Be), covering an area of roughly 10 square kilometers and supporting a population of around 22,000 residents. What truly sets Ly Son apart is its dramatic volcanic origin, evidenced by the presence of 10 ancient volcanic craters, three of which are submerged beneath the turquoise waters. These geological formations, coupled with stunning beaches and unspoiled scenery, create a landscape of unparalleled beauty.
The island’s allure extends beyond its geological wonders. Ly Son has become a magnet for tourism, drawing an estimated 250,000 visitors each year eager to explore its unique terrain and experience its tranquil atmosphere. Adding to its appeal is the island’s famous specialty: garlic. Ly Son garlic, renowned for its distinct flavor and quality, is a prized local product and a must-try for any visitor, contributing significantly to the island’s economy and cultural identity.
undefined

undefined
Final thoughts
Lý Sơn là huyện đảo thuộc tỉnh Quảng Ngãi, cách đất liền 17 hải lý. Huyện có diện tích khoảng 10km2, dân số khoảng 22.000 người. Huyện Lý Sơn bao gồm đảo Lớn và đảo Bé. Khu vực này có vết tích của 10 miệng núi lửa, trong đó có 3 miệng núi lửa nằm dưới đáy biển. Đảo Lý Sơn sở hữu nhiều miệng núi lửa cổ, bãi biển đẹp, khung cảnh hoang sơ. Ngoài ra, Lý Sơn còn nổi tiếng bởi hải sản tươi ngon, đặc biệt là đặc sản tỏi. Trung bình mỗi năm đảo Lý Sơn đón khoảng 250.000 du khách, highlighting its significant role in Vietnam’s tourism and natural heritage.
