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A popular travel destination in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is a land of bountiful heritage and rich culture and art. From the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh and the serene rice fields to the majestic marvels of nature like the Ha Long Bay and the Trang An Complex, Vietnam has easily been able to attract visitors. As per the latest data from the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) Ha Van Sieu, in the first four months of this year, the country has recorded nearly 3.7 million foreign tourists and is expecting the number to reach upto 10 million by the end of the year.
A key contributor to taking the country to the top charts is its past heritage. From Champa and Khmer kingdoms and the earliest Chinese dominations to the imprints of French colonialism, Vietnam has seen it all. As a result, the country is rich, with each corner whispering the stories of the past. In this blog, we shed light on the eight must-visit historical sites in Vietnam that will surely leave a lasting impression on you.
Historical Sites in Ho Chi Minh City
Cu Chi Tunnel
A must-visit, the Cu Chi Tunnels are the secretive underground system used during the Vietnam War. Originally dug in the late 1940s as a defensive strategy against the French, the function of the tunnels was expanded during the 1960s, whereby these were not only used as communication channels but also living quarters for the soldiers. These tunnels stand as a true testament to the grit and unbending spirit of those times. Today, many local guides are offering an immersive guided experience of the tunnels, where you get to see glimpses of life during wartime. As you traverse the tunnel system, you can see booby traps, bunkers, meeting rooms, kitchens, etc.
War Remnants Museum
Ranked amongst the most important museums in Vietnam, as the name suggests, the War Remnant Museum in Ho Chi Minh City showcases the remnants of the tragic wars. Fair Warning- visiting the museum is not just about turning the pages of history, but it also can be a quiet emotional journey. The museum showcases all the aspects of war, from the artillery and equipment like bombs, tanks, etc., to photographs and the heart-wrenching personal stories of the warriors; the place reminds one about the cost of war. One of the most shocking features of the museum is the "Tiger Cages" exhibit, replicating the gruesome treatment which was given to the Vietnamese revolutionaries.
Historical Sites in Hanoi
Temple of Literature
A journey to the Temple of Literature is like turning the pages of Vietnam's architectural and academic history. The temple was originally constructed in 1070 to honour Confucius, a great Chinese philosopher. Throughout the temple complex, from courtyards and pillars to halls, one can clearly feel the homage paid to the scholars and literati of ancient Vietnam. Interestingly, while visiting the temple, you should not miss touching the stone tortoises! In Vietnamese culture, turtles symbolise wisdom, and so it is said that whosoever touches the stone turtles supporting the stelae is blessed with academic luck.
Hoa Lo Prison
Constructed by the French colonial administration in the heart of Hanoi during the 19th century, the prison was made to detain the Vietnamese political persons who opposed colonial rule. Today, the prison is a daunting reminder of past atrocities with its old cells, torture instruments, and personal stories showcased through photographs and personal belongings. The museum inside also houses some chilling artifacts (like the original French guillotine) from the time of the Vietnam wars.
Historical Site in Hue
Hue Imperial Citadel
The ancient city of Hue is a treasure trove of the past. Once the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, the city houses the majestic Hue Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Hue Imperial Citadel is a complex of ornate walls, gates, temples, halls and palaces situated on the northern bank of the Perfume River. The structure boasts a blend of oriental and European designs, reflecting the influence and interaction of Vietnam with foreign cultures. Interestingly, to date, the site still holds undisclosed secrets, providing a certain thrill to history lovers. Recently, in 2012, a group of archaeologists found a secret tunnel and a library.
Historical Site in Thanh Hoa
Citadel of the Ho Dynasty
This citadel was the cultural heart of the short-lived Ho Dynasty and was built somewhere around the 14th century. Legends say its massive stones were transported by a golden buffalo. Today, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the citadel's stone walls and gates evoke a sense of wonder among visitors, transporting them back to a time of monarchs and mysteries. Moreover, the citadel is surrounded by serene landscapes and waterways, adding a natural charm to the place.
Historical Sites in Hoi An
Hoi An Ancient Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Hoi An Ancient Town is a stunning confluence of history, art, culture and nature. Historically, the town served as an important Southeast Asian trading port from the 15th to the 19th century. The town boasts colourful-lit homes as its lantern-lit streets, Chinese temples, old-wooden houses, bridges, and local street shops and cafes preserve the old charm of the place. The local cuisine, marked by mouth-watering dishes like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings, further enriches the visitor's experience.
Do you know? As per legend, the famous Japanese bridge (also called "Chua Cau" or "Pagoda Bridge") was constructed to subdue Cu, a mythical creature. It is believed that its head is in India and its tail is in Japan, and it is this creature that causes earthquakes.
My Son Ruins
Just a short drive away from Hoi An, My Son is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a legacy of the ancient Champa civilisation. The site comprises around 70 red brick temples, primarily dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, and towers, each having intricate carvings of deities, priests, animals, and scenes of mythical battles. By exploring the temple complex on a guided tour, one can delve deeper into the life and culture of the Champa people, which date back to the 4th century. What adds more beauty to this archaeological site is its location amidst lush greenery, serving as a perfect escape from the city buildings.
A country that has gracefully withstood the test of time, Vietnam boasts a rich collection of heritage. As one delves deeper into its heartland, the ancient tales come alive, sometimes revealing awe-inspiring legends while sometimes heartbreaking stories, but eventually serving as a perfect place for history buffs!
"A concerted effort to preserve our heritage is a vital link to our cultural, education, aesthetic, inspirational, and economic legacies- all of teh things that quite literally make us who we are."
~ Steve Berry