The Secrets of the Imperial Citadel: Unveiling a Legacy of Treasures

The three national treasures recently declared at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel are of immense historical significance. They stand as a testament to the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Vietnam, showcasing a depth and variety that is truly remarkable. These treasures, now recognized and protected, offer a glimpse into the country's past and serve as a source of pride for all Vietnamese people.

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In 2024, Vietnam’s Prime Minister designated 33 artifacts and collections as national treasures, among them three items from the UNESCO-recognized Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Hanoi.

The heritage site is now home to three national treasures: phoenix heads from the Ly Dynasty, an impressive imperial vase, and the Truong Lac ceramics collection from the early Le Dynasty.

The Ly Dynasty Phoenix Heads: A Sophisticated Collection



The Ly Dynasty Phoenix Heads are a set of unique, original artifacts. Photo courtesy of Thang Long Imperial Citadel

The Ly Dynasty Phoenix Head Collection consists of five terracotta masterpieces dating back to the 11th or 12th century. Each sculpture was carefully crafted, with the terracotta aged and worked before being shaped. The varying sizes of the phoenix heads showcase the complexity and skill of the plastic arts during the Ly Dynasty, with all patterns intricately carved by hand.

These artifacts were unearthed at the 18 Hoang Dieu archaeological site, located in the central sector of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. They were discovered in a stable stratum associated with the Ly and Tran dynasties, untouched by later periods.

The phoenix heads are full of life, with wavy manes, long beaks, plump cheeks, and bodhi leaf-shaped crests tilting forward. The attention to detail is remarkable, with large round eyes, backward-drawn eyebrows, and large wavy ears, all contributing to the high level of craftsmanship evident in these ancient pieces.

This collection, found alongside other artifacts, provides valuable evidence that helped researchers identify the architectural styles of the Ly and Tran dynasties, specifically the design of their roofs.

As original artifacts, the Ly Dynasty Phoenix Heads offer a rare glimpse into the architecture and sculpture of the 11th and 12th centuries, making them invaluable for historical research.

The Imperial Vase: A Symbol of Power and Grace



The impressive 15th-century imperial vase, a newly declared national treasure.

The second treasure is a 15th-century imperial vase from the early Le Dynasty, consisting of a base, body, shoulder, mouth, spout, and handle. This unique vase, according to the Thang Long Imperial Citadel representative, likely had a lid, which has unfortunately not been found. The height and design suggest a grand presence, befitting its royal origins.

The hidden dragon shape is the highlight of this artifact, with the spout forming the head, complete with an embossed mane and horns. The handle represents the dragon’s body, with raised fins and two legs on either side of the vase’s shoulders, kicking energetically backward. The legs, with their firm muscles, give the impression of both grace and power.

Between the legs, on either side of the vase’s shoulders, is an embossed flower with a large pistil and small, pearl-like petals. The production technique showcases the exceptional ceramic craftsmanship of the early Le Dynasty, from the manual shaping of the clay to the separate production and assembly of the pieces, and finally, the special high-temperature firing techniques employed.



Ceramics excavation site at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a treasure trove of historical artifacts.

This imperial vase was discovered in the excavation pits at the 18 Hoang Dieu Archaeological Site, specifically in layers associated with the Ly, Tran, and Le Dynasties. Its discovery provides significant evidence of the advanced ceramic production techniques of the early Le Dynasty in Dai Viet.

Scholars believe that this vase may have been used as a wine jug during grand banquets, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural life of the royal court. Along with other artifacts, it provides valuable insights into the cuisine, rituals, art, and ceramic techniques of that era.

The Truong Lac Ceramics Collection: A Window to the Past



An artifact from the Truong Lac ceramics collection, discovered in the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Hanoi.

The third national treasure is the Truong Lac ceramics collection, dating back to the 15th or 16th century. This collection includes 36 cups, bowls, and plates, all handcrafted with precision. According to the Thang Long – Hanoi Heritage Conservation Center, these artifacts hold special historical and cultural significance.

It is believed that the Truong Lac Palace, one of the grandest palaces of the Thang Long Royal Court during the early Le Dynasty, used these items. This collection is essential for studying and understanding the functions and history of the royal palaces of that period, as well as the construction and operation of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, filling in crucial gaps in our knowledge of Vietnam’s rich historical narrative.

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