VHO - Not only is it a great stone structure in the middle of a sacred land, the Ho Dynasty Citadel also hides a rich and valuable treasure trove of artifacts underground. The pieces of pottery, bricks, foundations, architectural structures, etc. found through archaeological excavations over the past 20 years have provided solid scientific evidence, affirming the integrity and authenticity - the core factors that helped the Ho Dynasty Citadel Heritage be listed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage.
Archaeological artifacts – “living witnesses” of history
The Ho Dynasty Citadel was built in an extremely short time, just over the first three months of 1397, but to this day the stone wall, more than 3.5km long, is still intact, massive and solid.
However, to gain a deep understanding of the Ho Dynasty and to prove the integrity and authenticity of a heritage complex, stone walls are not enough. There needs to be concrete evidence of living space, construction techniques, material and spiritual life in the citadel and that is the role of archaeological artifacts.
Since 2004, the Institute of Archaeology, in collaboration with the Ho Dynasty Citadel Heritage Conservation Center, has conducted many large-scale investigations and excavations in key areas within the inner city, temples, Nam Giao altar and surrounding areas.
Through this, tens of thousands of artifacts were discovered, including bricks, architectural stones, ceramics, bronze, animal bones, charcoal, etc. Most of the artifacts are still in place, undisturbed, with clear cultural layers and dating to the short-lived period of the Ho Dynasty.
Notably, a large number of bricks are engraved with Chinese and Nom characters, marking the brick production locations to serve the construction of the capital through the stages. This reflects the transition from the Tran to the Ho and then the Early Le dynasties. The brick firing technique, shape and quality also show a high level of technical expertise and consistency in construction planning.
Bricks printed with place names not only establish the age of architectural works such as the main hall, temples or altars, but also provide direct evidence, helping to compare historical documents with archeology.
Not stopping there, pieces of white glazed ceramics, celadon, blue glazed ceramics, rough ceramics, brown ceramics… were discovered in very large quantities. Many sophisticated decorative artifacts, dating from the late Tran – early Ho dynasties, were products of famous domestic nopoir ceramic kilns during many golden periods of the nation’s history.
This is a vivid demonstration of daily life, rituals and cultural and industrial exchange activities between Tay Do and other regions.
Some special artifacts such as lids, lamp stands, incense burners, sacrificial objects... appeared in the Nam Giao altar area and temples, showing the rituals of worshiping heaven and ancestors with strong Confucian colors.
These relics reflect the spiritual life of the Ho Dynasty, contributing to affirming the authenticity of the function of important ceremonial structures.
In particular, many stone architectural artifacts such as: reinforced foundation pillars, pedestals, slabs, steps, railings, mortise and tenon stone bars... were discovered in an almost intact state. These structures help determine the scale, plan, axis direction and function of the works, thereby scientifically reconstructing the overall architecture of the citadel.
The large, meticulously crafted, tightly fitted blocks of green stone demonstrate the high technical level of the Ho Dynasty craftsmen, and are also clear evidence of the construction organization capacity during a special historical period.
It is worth noting that all these archaeological artifacts were discovered in the correct location of the ancient urban spatial structure, in an undisturbed stratigraphy, clearly demonstrating their original and authentic value. This is a key factor in UNESCO's assessment of the outstanding global value of the Ho Dynasty Citadel Heritage.
Preserving artifacts in situ – Preserving original values for future generations
In UNESCO's assessment, authenticity does not only stop at age or technique, but also includes the originality of the context of discovery and appropriate conservation work. Ho Dynasty Citadel is one of the few World Heritage sites in Vietnam that synchronously implements archaeological excavation associated with in situ conservation of artifacts, in accordance with international principles.
After each excavation, artifacts such as foundations, foundations, printed bricks, stone structures, etc. are carefully protected by covering the strata, using geotextile, clean sand and specialized membranes to prevent erosion, limit weathering and ensure their original state. Some typical excavation pits are also temporarily restored for outdoor display, servingthe education of the community and visitors.
The Ho Dynasty Citadel Heritage Conservation Center is currently collaborating with experts from UNESCO, the Institute of Archaeology and international organizations to digitize all archaeological artifacts, build a 3D database and an artifact distribution map. The application of technology not only contributes to the protection of artifacts but also opens up new approaches to research, display and communication of heritage.
Notably, many typical artifacts have been selected, preserved and put on display at the Ho Dynasty Citadel Heritage Exhibition House, serving research, sightseeing and education. This is a way to transform archaeological values into educational values and sustainable development, in line with the spirit of the 1972 World Heritage Convention.
Excavation, restoration and preservation of archaeological artifacts in situ not only contribute to preserving authenticity but also create a foundation for future heritage restoration and interpretation projects. With an ancient architectural complex that only has the remaining wall, such as the Ho Dynasty Citadel, preserving archaeological artifacts in their original location is the key to preserving historical memory for future generations.
It is no coincidence that the Ho Dynasty Citadel Heritage was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage with criteria (ii) and (iv) - that is, outstanding evidence for a historical period and a typical form of urban architecture. Because in addition to the great stone citadel, the archaeological artifacts, even if they are just broken pottery pieces or bricks with printed letters, have provided authentic, scientific and convincing evidence of the existence, continuity, function and level of development of the Tay Do capital.
As Dr. Nguyen Giang Hai, former Director of the Institute of Archaeology, once shared: “Archaeological artifacts cannot be falsified. They are living evidence, helping history speak out in the most honest way. The Ho Dynasty Citadel retains its authenticity not because of its solid stone walls, but because of the layers of sedimentary soil and pristine artifacts that have been sleeping underground for over 600 years.”
Source: https://baovanhoa.vn/van-hoa/bai-2-khang-dinh-tinh-xac-thuc-cua-di-san-135297.html
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