Vietnam has recently recognized four ancient artifacts as national treasures, joining the ranks of 33 other precious relics. This decision, made by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, was announced by the museum on Friday.
Among these newly acknowledged treasures are the Ngo Mon bell, a stone relief crafted during the reign of King Minh Mang, King Duy Tan’s throne, and a dragon statue that dates back to the rule of King Thieu Tri.
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| King Duy Tan’s throne, a masterpiece from the early 20th century, now stands as a national treasure of Vietnam. Photo: Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities |
The Ngo Mon bell, cast in bronze, holds a significant place in history. It dates back to 1822, during the reign of King Minh Mang, the second emperor of the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945). Visitors can admire this artifact at Lau Ngu Phung, located within the Meridian Gate of the Hue Imperial City.
This bell, originally placed in the southern gate—the largest of the four main entrances to the Hue Imperial City—held a ceremonial purpose and symbolized the power of the feudal dynasty.
The stone relief, a creation from 1829 during King Minh Mang’s reign, is currently exhibited at the museum’s Long An Palace. What sets this marble artifact apart is the presence of two poems engraved on it, bearing the mark of King Minh Mang himself.
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| Witness history through the stone relief: The front and back sides bear the mark of King Minh Mang with his poems engraved. Photo: Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities |
King Duy Tan’s throne, crafted in the early 20th century, also finds its home at Long An Palace. King Duy Tan, who ascended the throne at a young age of seven in 1907, required a specially made small-sized throne for his coronation ceremony.
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| The dragon statue, a symbol of imperial power, dates back to the reign of King Thieu Tri. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre |
The dragon statue, created during the reign of King Thieu Tri in 1842, is on display at the Thai Hoa Palace within the Hue Imperial City. This statue is a testament to the exquisite bronze-casting art of the Nguyen Dynasty, taking the form of an ‘imperial golden seal’ with a coiled dragon design.
Initially placed in front of the porch of Can Thanh Palace, the dragon statue served as a symbol of imperial power and authority during the king’s daily life and work within the Hue Imperial City.
The Eternal City’s Ancient Treasures: Hanoi Restores its Centuries-Old Pagodas
The ancient Tram and Tram Gian pagodas have long been a source of spiritual solace for the people of Hanoi. With their impending restoration, these serene suburban sanctuaries will once again captivate locals and enchant visitors. The pagodas’ timeless allure, nestled amidst the bustling city’s outskirts, promises a tranquil escape—a glimpse into Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage and a testament to its enduring spiritual traditions.
