Published:  00:00 Wednesday - November 26, 2008

Archeologists and historians from Vietnam and abroad attended an international workshop in Hanoi on November 24-25 on the huge cultural and historical value of the Thang Long-Hanoi Royal Citadel.

Speakers at the workshop expounded on a number of similarities between Thang Long and various other domestic and foreign historical sites.

Dr. Phan Thanh Hai from the Centre for the Preservation of Hue Imperial Capital said that Thang Long and Hue share many similarities and have many differences. Hue’s architectural styles give a basis for historical comparison, which will help to reveal more information about Thang Long Royal Citadel.

Yun Hyenung, from the National Museum of the Republic of Korea, said that despite geographical distance, Thang Long citadel and Silla citadel share similarities in terms of their cultural development. Both citadels have not been moved for over 1,000 years.

The historic site, located at 18 Hoang Dieu, Ba Dinh district, Hanoi, was the centre of the Thang Long Royal Citadel during the Ly, Tran and Le dynasties.

Following the results of research carried out between 2004-2008, the unique historical value of the Thang Long Royal Citadel was confirmed by the discovery of various connected archeological layers, reflecting the continual succession of dynasties involved in the construction of the citadel.

The archeologists and historians working at the site have recently discovered structural modifications dating back 1,300 years, with the activity of each ruling dynasty reflected in an array of archeological designs.

They also unearthed millions of ancient artifacts, including porcelain items originating from China, Japan and West Asia, suggesting a history of cultural and economic exchange between Thang Long citadel and other countries spanning thousands of years.

Documents relating to the royal citadel’s proposal for recognition as a world cultural heritage site have arrived in Paris for consideration by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).