Although Vietnam is best known for its turbulent military past, this beautiful Southeast Asian nation also offers stunning historical landmarks that any history lover should see. Ranging from stunning ruins to elegant palaces, Vietnam offers plenty of must-visit spots in which any history buff should visit.
Ho Chi Minh was an influential communist leader who died in 1969. Pay your respects at his mausoleum in Hanoi and explore Hoa Loa Prison – once nicknamed by prisoners as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’. Also, visit My Son Cham ruins; an impressive cluster of Hindu temples which look straight out of an Indiana Jones movie!
Co Loa Citadel
Co Loa Citadel is one of Vietnam’s oldest, largest-scale structures and an invaluable historical landmark, famously associated with many legends and attesting to Vietnamese people’s tremendous efforts in creating and safeguarding their nation, particularly when faced with foreign invaders.
This ancient citadel was constructed during the 3rd century BC as the capital of Au Lac Kingdom and later renovated during the 10th century AD by King Ngo Quyen to help end over 1,000 years of Chinese rule.
Today’s Co Loa Citadel not only houses remnants of its ancient royal court but also hosts An Duong Vuong temple and lake for visitors to enjoy, but visitors are sure to be struck by a pair of dragon sculptures on its front gate, symbolic of Le dynasty sculpture art. Additionally, Co Loa Citadel boasts numerous artifacts that represent both China and Champa influences that helped foster an individual culture within northern Vietnam.
Hue Imperial Citadel
Hue’s Citadel complex was constructed between 1805 and 1945 by thirteen Nguyen emperors and is now recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage relic. Visitors can explore its impressive walls and moats of Imperial City as well as Purple Forbidden City which served as a private inner sanctum for Emperor Nguyen Phuc and his closest confidants, concubines, and eunuchs.
Geomancy experts selected the site of the Citadel using spiritual science known as geomancy to detect good omens in nature and natural landscapes. They decided that Perfume River and mountains on either side would protect its city of temples, palaces, offices, gardens and residences.
Ngo Mon Gate was said to be designed in the shape of five phoenixes and opened onto the Royal City; here the Emperor hosted ceremonial events and conducted meetings regarding internal affairs; its purple walls provided protection for him, his servants, concubines and eunuchs.
Cannon Fort
Cannon Fort, also known as High Point 177, is an essential stop when visiting Cat Ba Island. Situated 177 metres above town and offering spectacular views over its landscapes.
This site served as a military look-out during both French and American wars, featuring large cannon bunkers and an intricate tunnel system as key features. Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Cat Ba Island with its striking karst peaks as well as colourful fishing villages located along its shores.
Cannon Fort is an intriguing destination that offers both history and breathtaking scenery. To get the full experience, the best time to visit is between spring and autumn when weather conditions are mild with little risk of rainfall obstructing views. Although entrance fees to Cannon Fort may seem steep at first, their stunning panoramas more than justify the investment!
Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda (also referred to as Heavenly Lady Temple) is the oldest monument in Hue with stunning Royal architecture, scenic views, and perfect Feng Shui – it serves as an excellent opportunity to learn about Hue’s rich history, culture and traditions.
Lord Nguyen Hoang began construction of this pagoda in 1601, on a hill overlooking Huong River after seeing an image of his mother here and being inspired to build this monument by her image.
Phuoc Duyen Tower stands out as an imposing 21 meter-tall structure within Thien Mu Pagoda complex and can be seen from miles away as its iconic symbolism can be clearly observed from nearby. Each floor holds a Buddha statue. This seven-floored octagonal tower stands as an important landmark and can easily be identified with Thien Mu Pagoda from its distance location.
The complex also boasts a 1710 bronze bell cast in gold leaf, an ornate wood stele with Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu’s inscriptions and two magnificent bronze cast lions – not forgetting its garden filled with beautiful bonsai trees behind its main shrine and two bronze cast lions as additional attractions – which must not be missed on your tour of Vietnam! This pagoda should definitely be on your itinerary for your vacation trip!
