Hanoi Citadel

Some places are imbued with the mysterious history and secrets of the past. In Vietnam, one of such places is the Hanoi Citadel. Locals call it Thang Long in honor of an old name of the capital.

The complex of old buildings appeared almost simultaneously with the city. It was in the distant 11th century. Unfortunately, the Hanoi Citadel has not been preserved in its initial majestic appearance, which our ancestors were able to see. It was seriously damaged in the 19th-20th centuries and almost turned into ruins due to numerous wars.

Fortunately, in the current millennium, the Vietnamese have clearly understood the incredible value of the Hanoi Citadel and the high risk of its loss. Right after they got an opportunity, they initiated excavations, studying and reconstruction of the once-great royal residence. In 2007, it was recognized as an architectural monument of state importance, and in 2 years – as a special national monument. In 2010, Vietnam was supported by the world public, and the Hanoi Citadel was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Initially, the ancient complex was a small royal corps, built during the Ly (Lý) dynasty. Gradually the territory of Thang Long was expanded and new state important buildings and towers appeared on its territory. Reconstruction of the complex continued even during the times of Le (Lê), Nguyen (Nguyễn) and Tran (Trần) dynasties.

The central part of the royal citadel, which is so attractive to the travelers of Hanoi today, takes an area of 18 thousand square meters and is located in a historical district of the capital. It is surrounded by many state and financial establishments, so, in fact, the public and political center of the city has been left at the same place.

The territory of the Hanoi Citadel also includes the foundation of an ancient palace of Kinh Thanh, the tower-flagpole, stone steps with railings in the form of formidable dragons, the north and south gates, the ruins of some other buildings, as well as several interesting relics.

Excavations in the royal complex have still been undergoing. Nobody knows what other surprises it will bring and what interesting discoveries will be made.