Hanoi Flag Tower: Witness of History Through the Turmoil of the Century

Hanoi Flag Tower is an immortal symbol of the capital, quiet but majestic, having witnessed many ups and downs of the country's history over more than two centuries. Built under the Gia Long dynasty in 1805 and completed in 1812, this work is not only an architectural wonder but also a living testament to the resilient spirit of the Vietnamese people. Located in the grounds of the Vietnam Military History Museum, Hanoi Flag Tower stands out like a lighthouse in the heart of the city, guiding and marking many heroic events of the country.

This massive structure is designed to be 33m high, including the flagpole which is 44m, divided into three sturdy bases and an octagonal column reaching high into the sky. Each base has arches with meaningful names, such as Nghenh Huc welcoming the morning light, Hoi Quang reflecting the evening light and Huong Minh pointing towards the light. These are not just simple names but contain within them the philosophy of harmony between humans and nature, between light and darkness, between the past and the future.

Throughout its history, the Hanoi Flag Tower has faced many upheavals. In the late 19th century, the French colonialists attacked and occupied Hanoi twice, turning the flag tower into a strategic observation post. From here, the French army coordinated campaigns throughout Indochina. The landscape around the flag tower also changed over time when Tuong Lake was filled in, modern streets sprung up, and the area became a barracks for the French army. But despite all the changes, the Flag Tower still stands firm, becoming an eternal and immortal symbol of Hanoi.

Hanoi's flagpole in the past. Photo: Collected

When Hanoi was liberated on October 10, 1954, the Hanoi Flag Tower was once again adorned with sacredness and heroism. The flag-raising ceremony on that day became an unforgettable moment, when the red flag with a yellow star fluttered in the sky of the capital, signaling the day of independence and freedom for the Vietnamese people. The image of the victorious army marching from the five gates, welcomed by tens of thousands of people, is a beautiful page in the history of every Hanoian. That was the day when the people of the capital witnessed for the first time in many years the national flag flying proudly on top of the flagpole, a symbol of a nation that overcame all hardships to regain freedom.

The Hanoi Flag Tower is an architectural work rich in historical value, and at the same time a symbol that evokes pride in the glorious past of the nation. Ms. Hoang Minh Phuong, a Hanoi resident who lived through those important moments, still remembers the image of the national flag fluttering in the deep blue sky, carrying the hope and dream of a peaceful future. Those memories not only live in her heart but are also passed down to many generations to come, becoming an indispensable part of the history of the Capital.

Hanoi Flag Tower - symbol of the Capital. Photo: Vnexpress

After more than two centuries, the Hanoi Flag Tower still stands tall and majestic as an eternal symbol of patriotism and resilience. Despite facing the devastation of war, harsh nature and the vicissitudes of life, this structure still retains its value, becoming an irreplaceable symbol of the thousand-year-old capital. Every time they look up at the national flag flying on top of the tower, Hanoians and tourists are reminded of the sacrifices, hardships and heroic feats that have made the glorious history of the Vietnamese people.

More than just an architectural work, it contains precious cultural and historical values, a place to preserve and honor the unforgettable memories of a heroic nation. In the heart of Hanoi, the flagpole remains steadfast, forever a symbol of pride and aspiration for peace.

Hoang Anh