The history of Vietnam

Vietnam is one of those countries around the world that is steeped in history and culture. Over the centuries, several prominent dynasties have called this place home, and they still reflect beautifully in the Vietnam World Heritage sites.

Before we talk more about the places that you must visit, let’s take a quick peek at the history of Vietnam.

As Indians, you already know how foreign rulers have made this country their home. They brought their culture and learnings, of course, but there are also several bitter pills to swallow.

Vietnam has a similarly long history of foreign countries ruling them and leaving behind many traces of their conquest. Here are some historic significance of Vietnam:

1. Vietnam’s prehistoric settlements featured the Hoabinhians who ruled over 20,000 years ago.

2. Around 700 BC, the Bronze Age reigned in Vietnam long after most of its traces were gone from the rest of the world. It was the period of the Dong Sun dynasty.

3. The first legendary Vietnamese dynasty came much later with the Hong Bang. They flourished and their accomplishments have shaped many parts of Vietnamese culture, even though they didn’t have much impact on history itself.

4. Thuc Phan soon took over to establish the Au Luc Kingdom and unified the various tribes of Vietnam.

5. Years after, a Chinese general named Zhao Tuo founded the Trieu Dynasty. His rule is often a topic of debate for whether or not it was local kingship.

6. In 1009, the Ly Dynasty took the reigns of Vietnam and eradicated Chinese rule upon the country. They elected Hanoi as the state capital, which holds to this day.

7. In 1225, the Ly Dynasty was overthrown by the Tran Dynasty. Although they kept many of their old means of centralised government, they also restricted the rule by the Moghul Empire. This marked a Golden Era of culture in Vietnam and welcomed prosperity and the country flourished under their rule.

8. Between 1400 and 1428, Vietnam suffered a setback due to unscrupulous rulers.

9. In 1428, Le Loi founded the Le Dynasty and once again united the cultural aspects of Vietnam. The kingdom made many contributions to its cultural heritage that remain significant to this day.

10. After the Le Dynasty in 1789, the kingdoms floundered once again but were soon saved by the Nguyen Dynasty in 1802. The Nguyen Dynasty ruled as the last kingdom of Vietnamese before the French Invasion.

11. In the mid-nineteenth century, French Colonisation flourished significantly in Vietnam.

12. In 1945, after World War 2, Vietnam was finally able to regain its independence but with a saddening loss of lives.

13. The independence of Vietnam was soon followed by the Indo-China War. One of the largest outcomes of the devastating battle was the segregation of North and South Vietnam.

14. Finally, in 1975, many external armies came to the aid of the country and another great war, commonly known today as the Vietnam War was fought. After the Vietnam War ended, North and South Vietnam were united once again to become the cultural haven that we all know and love.

15. Vietnam has since evolved and embraced capitalism with valor and it shows beautifully in the idealistic architecture and infrastructure of the various cities.

Although Vietnam has shuffled through many cultural changes, the country emerged independent and full of life and beauty. Today, it is one of the most popular holiday destinations and sports Vietnam World Heritage sites. These places not only reflect the history of Vietnam and all the dynasties that came and went, but also provide relevant proof of involvement from other cultures and countries from around the world.

The top Vietnam World Heritage sites to visit

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, it is ideal to know the history of the beautiful nation and all that it has to offer. Among its primary attractions are the Vietnam World Heritage sites that carefully preserved the history and the infamous Vietnam War.

When planning your itinerary during your tour around Vietnam, make sure to add the following Vietnam World Heritage sites. You will be amazed by how much you learn about different cultures as you soak in the history of these famous locations:

1. Hoi An Ancient Town

As you know now, Vietnam has long been subjected to foreign rule. One of the well-preserved areas to observe the trend in the past few centuries is the Hoi An Ancient Town. 30 hectares of the city that has bathed in the culture of the Japanese, Chinese, and European subcontinents are well preserved by UNESCO.

From carved pagodas to ancient stores, everything adds to the charm of Hoi An, which was once a major hub for merchants. The history seeping through the city’s foundation makes it a cherished Vietnam World Heritage site.

2. The Hue Monuments

The last dynasty to rule Vietnam was the Nguyen dynasty. They introduced structure and militarisation in more ways than one. The Hue monuments feature government offices, administrative buildings and military establishments showcasing the nuanced style of structures under the Nguyen emperors.

The Nguyen dynasty also built temples and palaces with graceful architecture and an area was carved out to entomb the emperors after their demise. All the marvellous architecture by the Nguyen Dynasty united the 5 elements that comprise life itself and the major feudal structures featured built along the Perfume River.

The Hue monuments are close to the coastal regions, reflecting the penchant for well-thought-out architectural genius with colourful musings and intricate locations. They are located in Hue City and are the epitome of culture, independence, and vibrancy despite the sad ending of the Nguyen Dynasty. To fully enjoy these experiences, having International Travel Insurance ensures you’re covered for any unexpected travel disruptions.

3. The Trang An Landscape Complex

The rich dynastial heritage of Vietnam continues with a trip to Ninh Bihn. Celebrating their heritage from the 11 century, when the Tran dynasty ruled the kingdom and welcomed cultural practices, the Trang An landscape complex forms the perfect synergy of 3 out of the 5 natural elements.

The mountaintops made of Karst provide a scenic panoramic view of the vistas, while the waterbodies connect many forgotten estates. You can row along with an assigned guide or try braving them yourself while admiring the serene beauty. Not only does the water element offer passage for locals and tourists but also nourishes the paddies and rain forests nearby.

Speaking of which, you cannot miss the lush greenery of the Hoa Lu Forest as part of the Trang An Landscape Complex. Take a trudge and you might just discover an innate part of yourself.

4. Phong Nha-ke Bang National Park

This is an absolute haven for nature lovers apart from being a Vietnam World Heritage Spot. 1,26,236 hectares of land is protected by UNESCO for its limestone karsts and natural caves. What’s even more astonishing are the underground rivers that eventually connect with the waterbodies around the lush green rainforests.

If you are lucky, you might spot a number of endemic species of flora and fauna in the area, including black bears and saolas. The simplicity of nature is captured in the stretches of land in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

These locales that are now part of the Vietnam World Heritage program provide the perfect backdrop to understand the cultural evolution of the locals and the overall country. It is hard not to relish the natural beauty while secretly cringing at the different hands that laid down the law with brute force to make Vietnam what it is today. Having Travel Insurance ensures peace of mind as you explore these remarkable landmarks without worrying about unforeseen events.

FAQs

1. Which is the best Vietnam World Heritage Site?

It depends on your taste and sense of whimsy. For those who enjoy nature, the National Park is a great choice, while for those looking to learn about the different foreign kingdoms that ruled Vietnam, Hoi An Ancient City may be a better choice. If you want to feel the effects of the 5 natural elements try the Hue Monuments.

2. Why is it said that Vietnam has a sad history?

Vietnam was ruled by different dynasties that overthrew each other till the wars that almost broke the country in half. It took forces from outside the country to bring together North and South Vietnam once again to be ruled under one government and live in camaraderie.

3. Are the Vietnam World Heritage sites protected by UNESCO?

Yes, all the Vietnam World Heritage sites are protected by the United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation, popularly known as UNESCO.

4. Are there special rules when visiting the Vietnam World Heritage Sites?

While there are no hard and fast rules, there are certain guidelines that you must follow as a tourist, such as:

• Don’t litter.

• Don’t claim souvenirs from the natural habitats.

• Don’t harm wildlife or flora.

• Be respectful of the locals.

There may also be rules about dressing appropriately to avoid insects and other such common dogmas that the guide will share with you before you enter the Vietnam World Heritage sites.