Ho Dynasty Citadel – a heritage that endures through time.

Ho Dynasty Citadel, a World Heritage site, bears the imprint of unique history and architecture. Through countless ups and downs, the citadel still stands tall, a source of national pride.

Báo Công thương•04/02/2025

A heritage that endures through time.

Every spring, everything seems to be reborn under the warm golden sunlight; flowers and leaves vie with each other to show off their colors, and birds sing merrily. In the bustling and vibrant atmosphere of the early spring days, I visited Ho Dynasty Citadel (Vinh Loc district, Thanh Hoa province), one of the precious cultural heritage sites of the nation.

Stepping into this place, I felt as if I had entered another world , a world where time seemed to stand still. From there, one can hear the whispers of the stones, as if they are telling stories of a glorious era of the nation, affirming the boundless talent and creativity of our ancestors.

Ho Dynasty Citadel, a precious heritage of the nation.

Ho Citadel, located in Long and Vinh Tien communes, Vinh Loc district, Thanh Hoa province, is one of Vietnam's most unique and historically significant architectural works. Begun in 1397 during the reign of Ho Quy Ly, the citadel quickly became a political , economic, and cultural center of the Ho dynasty.

With its deep moats, sturdy walls, and supporting structures, the Ho Dynasty Citadel is not only a symbol of military might but also a testament to the architectural talent of the ancient Vietnamese people. Despite enduring the ups and downs of history, the citadel has retained its serene and ancient beauty, attracting numerous tourists to visit and learn about it.

This is not just a standalone architectural structure, but also a place where time stands still. Like a time machine, it transports us back to the past to experience life in the royal palace during majestic and opulent court ceremonies. Then, everything vanishes like a fleeting breeze, awakening us to the present, joining the people of today who are seeking to reflect. Touching the past to cherish this life and protect it for future generations.

Ho Dynasty Citadel possesses an ancient beauty. Photo: Quoc Huy

Here, nature and humanity seem to blend together, creating a harmonious picture. Lush green trees and vibrant flowers all seem to celebrate the beauty of this architectural masterpiece. Ancient trees stretch upwards like silent guardians of the past, while tender young leaves sway in the spring breeze, symbolizing new life rising from the traces of time.

The hands of the past together shaped history, and now I have the opportunity to touch them. From reflections on the past, I began to explore the hidden corners of Ho Citadel. Every small corner, every detail holds mysteries waiting to be discovered.

The fact that Ho Citadel has retained its value to this day is thanks to the dedication of those who have contributed and continue to contribute to preserving and promoting the value of this heritage . Historians have diligently searched for every clue, gradually revealing the deep mysteries of the citadel.

Archaeologists have discovered the foundations of structures and valuable artifacts that help recreate the life of the people of the past, while architects have meticulously studied to preserve the unique features of the structure. The management team, with their deep love for Ho Citadel, has created a special cultural environment where the past and present intertwine.

Many young people visited Ho Dynasty Citadel on the second day of the Lunar New Year (Year of the Snake), not only to enjoy the spring festivities but also to learn about the nation's history. Photo: Quoc Huy

At the same time, local people always preserve and pass on historical stories, contributing to enriching the value of the heritage. Stories about the two stone dragons, or the touching tale of Lady Binh Khuong who sacrificed herself to plead for her husband's innocence, have created a mysterious and captivating atmosphere. Furthermore, the active participation of the people in preserving and developing the heritage has contributed to making Ho Dynasty Citadel more vibrant than ever.

Conservation is closely linked to tourism development.

According to Mr. Trinh Huu Anh, Deputy Director of the Ho Dynasty Citadel Heritage Conservation Center: “ The preservation and promotion of the value of the Ho Dynasty Citadel heritage must aim at a shared sense of responsibility with the companionship and sharing of the community. Only then will the heritage be sustainable in the hearts of the people, and more resources can be mobilized to preserve and promote the value of this heritage.”

Nestled within the heritage site, we often encounter groups of students attentively listening to presentations about their hometown's history, a sight that leaves a particularly strong impression. A parent from Thanh Hoa province shared: "Bringing my children here, I want them to understand that the past isn't just found in textbooks, but is vividly present right here. This is the best way to instill in them a love of history and national pride."

The Ho Dynasty Citadel still displays many valuable artifacts, making it a popular destination for young people passionate about history. Photo: Quoc Huy

Outside the citadel, life continues to be bustling, but the beauty of the ancient royal palace is preserved and developed through the skillful hands of the people. Traditional handicrafts, from exquisite paper fans to cakes with royal flavors, are not only souvenirs but also unique works of art, imbued with the spirit of an era.

Just as in the past, generations of Vietnamese people joined forces, contributing stones to build the sturdy citadel; today, that spirit continues. Preserving and promoting the value of the Ho Dynasty citadel is not just the responsibility of an individual or an organization, but the responsibility of the entire community. Every brick preserved, every carving restored, is an effort to further enhance the beauty of the nation's historical tapestry.

Many families visit Ho Dynasty Citadel in early spring. Photo: Quoc Huy.

Leaving Ho Dynasty Citadel, I carried within me a myriad of indescribable emotions. These included awe at its ancient beauty, respect for those who built and preserved this heritage, and pride in a part of our nation's glorious history.

Springtime at Ho Dynasty Citadel is not just a season of plants and flowers, but also a season of hope. With the tireless efforts of the community, Ho Dynasty Citadel will endure forever, becoming a symbol of pride for generations of Vietnamese people.

In the heart of the ancient Ho Dynasty citadel, where past and present intertwine, groups of people stroll leisurely through moss-covered rocks, exploring the traces of time. Spring seems even warmer and more joyful when visiting the Ho Dynasty citadel, where people can enjoy the spring festivities and learn about a glorious period in the nation's history.