The National Archive Center 4 recently unveiled its new digital exhibition center on September 22. This exhibition center showcases a collection of digitized documents and records that are tied to the Nguyen Dynasty woodblocks. The establishment of this center was made possible through generous funding from the Vingroup Innovation Foundation.

After the opening ceremony, attendees of the National Archive Center were able to explore the fascinating world of hologram technology. This interactive experience provided a captivating look into the history and stories behind the woodblocks from the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945).

Hologram technology offers a remarkable three-dimensional projection that can be observed without any prerequisite equipment, such as cameras or glasses.

In addition, participants will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the woodblock printing and engraving techniques employed during the feudal era, courtesy of advanced 3D mapping technology and captivating sand art demonstrations.

The virtual exhibition section highlighting a brief history of resistance against foreign invaders during various reigns of the Vietnamese feudal systems. Visitors can immerse themselves in this virtual exhibition using VR glasses, created using original documents and records. Photo: M.V. / Tuoi Tre

This virtual exhibition section highlights a brief history of resistance against foreign invaders during various reigns of the Vietnamese feudal system. Visitors can immerse themselves in this virtual exhibition using VR glasses, created using original documents and records. Photo: M.V. / Tuoi Tre

In our newly unveiled digital showcase room, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of virtual reality technology, specifically VR 360, in order to gain insight into the woodblocks and the remarkable journey surrounding the creation of this priceless collection of records.

Deputy Minister of Interior, Nguyen Duy Thang, has announced that the inauguration of the digital exhibition center at National Archive Center 4 marks a significant milestone in the efforts to promote, preserve, and make accessible the cultural importance of the Nguyen Dynasty woodblocks to a wider audience.

The process will be expedited using a combination of conventional and contemporary methodologies.

Thang commented that these activities will enhance the appeal of National Archive Center 4 as a tourist destination, attracting both tourists and experts from within the country and abroad, particularly young visitors to Da Lat City.

He strongly believes that the new digital exhibition center in Da Lat has the potential to lead the way in digital transformation for the preservation and utilization of records and archives in various cities and provinces across Vietnam.

Nguyen Xuan Hung, the director of the National Archive Center 4, expressed his aim to facilitate access to the Nguyen Dynasty woodblocks, acknowledged as World Documentary Heritage, for individuals interested in Vietnamese history through this virtual exhibition space.

Our goal is to foster connections among researchers, educators, artists, and individuals who have a shared passion for Vietnamese history. Through these connections, we aim to promote the core values and significance of Vietnamese history across diverse sectors.

Visitors experiencing the Nguyen Dynasty woodblocks in the digital exhibition center for the first time through hologram technology. Photo: M. V. / Tuoi Tre

Visitors experience the Nguyen Dynasty woodblocks in the digital exhibition center for the first time through hologram technology. Photo: M. V. / Tuoi Tre

Woodblocks of the Nguyen Dynasty – World Documentary Heritage

The Nguyen Dynasty woodblocks comprise a highly distinct collection of 34,555 wooden plates that have been intricately engraved with Chinese characters.

These blocks encompass a diverse array of subjects, providing glimpses into different facets of Vietnamese society in the feudal period.

The woodblocks featured on this page were originally utilized for book printing purposes in Vietnam between the 19th and early 20th centuries.

With the advancement of printing techniques worldwide in the early 20th century, the use of Nguyen Dynasty woodblocks for book printing was discontinued.

These documents have evolved into highly valuable original records that are carefully preserved and utilized for reference and comparison with other historical records as deemed necessary.

On July 30, 2009, the woodblocks from the Nguyen Dynasty were officially recognized as World Documentary Heritage. This recognition was granted at the meeting of the International Advisory Committee (IAC) of UNESCO, which took place in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Vietnam’s successful entry into UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme represents a significant accomplishment.

The Nguyen Dynasty woodblocks are highly scarce and valuable historical artifacts, both within Vietnam and worldwide.

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