Methods used to identify and categories the style of the My Son monuments

Since there are very few stelae left with inscriptions, and not all of them are deciphered yet, it is a very complex task to determine precisely the age of the monuments. In that respect, the influences of neighboring civilizations (mostly the Khmer and Javanese ones) on Cham architecture left invaluable clues to identify both the age and the style of the monuments. So the method used by researchers today mainly consists in establishing comparisons and analogies with the decoration, style and structure of buildings in neighboring civilizations. The apparition of new Cham architectural styles is more evident with regards to the' decorative patterns than in real new models of buildings. Thanks to Henri Parmentier, the monuments of My Son were classified into groups of letters (A, A', B, C, D, E, F, G, H and K), and then numbered according to their functions. It starts with the main sanctuary, the kalan, (number 1), then the gate tower (number 2), and soon. Even though these categories break up the architectural complex of My Son as a whole, they are remarkably efficient for the study and maintenance of the ruins.