Vietnam: A Country Rich in Cultural and Natural Heritage
Vietnam boasts an impressive nine UNESCO-listed heritage sites, a testament to its abundant natural beauty and rich historical past. From imperial citadels to ancient towns, Vietnam invites visitors to explore its diverse and captivating attractions.
Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Hanoi: A Symbol of Vietnam’s Political and Cultural Legacy
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| The majestic Thang Long Imperial Citadel, located in Hanoi, dates back to the 6th century. While time has left its mark, the site still boasts impressive structures such as the Flag Tower and Doan Mon (South Gate). Archaeologists have uncovered and preserved many artifacts, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich historical and cultural heritage. |
The citadel’s multi-layered cultural monuments showcase its significance as a political and cultural epicenter of Vietnam for centuries.
Hue Monuments Complex: A Testament to Vietnam’s Historical Legacy
Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, the Hue Monuments Complex comprises 29 relics and nearly 500 wooden artifacts. Hue served as the capital for various dynasties and lords, making it a pivotal location in Vietnam’s history. The complex preserves both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, embodying the intellect and spirit of the Vietnamese people.
Ha Long Bay: A Geologic Wonder and Aesthetic Marvel
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| Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts breathtaking aesthetic and global geologic value. With 775 limestone islands of various sizes, the bay showcases the beauty of nature’s erosion over millions of years. Ha Long Bay is a testament to Vietnam’s natural heritage and a must-see destination for travelers. |
My Son Sanctuary: A Journey into Vietnam’s Historical and Cultural Heritage
| My Son Sanctuary, located in Quang Nam, is a complex of towers and temples built between the 4th and 14th centuries. Despite the ravages of time and war, the remains of My Son hold great significance. Influenced by Hinduism, the sanctuary’s architectural works and sculptures face east, symbolic of the residence of the gods and the rising sun. |
The complex represents different periods in the history of the Champa kingdom, making it a unique and invaluable part of Vietnam’s cultural and architectural heritage.
Hoi An Ancient Town: A Blend of Regional and Global Styles
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| Hoi An Ancient Town, also in Quang Nam, is a well-preserved testament to the past. With 1,360 relics, including old houses, historic wells, and clan shrines, it showcases a unique blend of regional and global styles. Once a thriving trade center, Hoi An welcomed foreign traders from Japan, China, and Europe, contributing to its diverse and captivating character. |
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: A Geologic Wonderland
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| Located in Quang Binh, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park spans an impressive 201,000 hectares. The park boasts limestone formations, 300 caves, underground rivers, and rare flora and fauna. Its complex topography and exceptional geologic value earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2003. |
Citadel of the Ho Dynasty: A Masterpiece of Construction Techniques
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| The Ho Dynasty Citadel, located in Thanh Hoa, is a remarkable example of unique construction techniques. Built with finely carved blue stone slabs stacked tightly, the wall and four main gates showcase an arched architectural design. The citadel stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of ancient Vietnam. |
Trang An Landscape Complex: A Mixed Heritage Site of Exceptional Beauty
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| The Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh is Vietnam’s first mixed heritage site, recognized by UNESCO in 2014. With its stunning karst towers, primeval forests, and rare species, it is an “open-air geological museum.” Trang An offers a peaceful haven, surrounded by a symphony of rocks, rivers, forests, and sky. |
Ha Long Bay Complex – Cat Ba Archipelago: A Natural Paradise
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| The Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases 1,133 limestone islands adorned with lush vegetation. This natural paradise boasts the largest maritime forest in Vietnam and a diverse range of ecosystems. With nearly 5,000 species of flora and fauna, it is an exceptional ecosystem and a nature lover’s dream. |
The majestic beauty of sacred Yen Tu Mountain
Yen Tu Mountain is located in the northeast of Vietnam, in Uong Bi city, Quang Ninh province, about 50km from Ha Long Bay and about 110km from Hanoi capital.
Vietnam Military History Museum receives Fatherland Protection Order
NDO – The Vietnam Military History Museum held a ceremony in Hanoi on July 15 to celebrate its 60th anniversary (1956-2016) and receive the Fatherland Protection Order, first class.
Ancient house in Ma May
NDO – Ma May, a rare quarter that still retains several old houses, has created one of the characteristics of Hanoi. Hanoi’s streets are becoming increasingly crowded and traditional features can sometimes be hidden behind modern life. But if one takes the time to relax and look around, the ancient features begin to reveal themselves.
Hanoi, HCM City see good growth of tourism revenue
NDO – In the first ten months of 2016, the revenue of Ho Chi Minh City’s tourism industry amounted to VND80 trillion while Hanoi’s reached over VND50 trillion.
Book festival “Hanoi – City for Peace” opens
NDO – The Hanoi book festival with the theme “Hanoi – City for Peace” opened at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi on October 2, as part of activities to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the capital’s Liberation Day (October 10, 1954-2019).
