Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - 15 years as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – 15 years as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

26/11/2025

In the spirit of celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day (23/11/2005 – 23/11/2025), we have the opportunity to look back on and honor the enduring values that form the essence of our national identity. Mentioning the Thăng Long Imperial Citadel – Hanoi is to recall a uniquely important heritage complex that preserves the deepest imprints of the capital’s thousand-year history. Built and developed through numerous dynasties, the Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long is not only a monumental architectural work but also the center of national power throughout many historical periods.

Fifteen years ago, at 8:30 PM on July 31, 2010 (local time in Brazil), corresponding to 6:30 AM on August 1, 2010 in Vietnam, during the 34th session of the World Heritage Committee, the Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long – Hanoi was officially inscribed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site.

UNESCO recognized three outstanding universal values of the Citadel: its uninterrupted historical continuity; its role as the political center of the country across many eras; and its rich system of relics and artifacts that vividly reflect multiple overlapping cultural layers. These values are a source of pride for every Vietnamese.

On this special occasion, we invite you to watch the video titled “15 Years of the Thăng Long Imperial Citadel – A World Cultural Heritage Site,” to once again reflect on the journey of preservation and the unparalleled significance of this millennia-old heritage.

Over the past 15 years since its inscription, the preservation, restoration, and promotion of heritage values at the Thăng Long Imperial Citadel have always been carried out with deep respect for the past and a strong sense of responsibility, aiming to ensure sustainable conservation for future generations.

Admiring the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long at night

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long Offers Free Admission on Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – 15 years as a UNESCO World Heritage Site