Exploring different historical sites in Vietnam is an amazing tourism activity that you should not miss out on during the trip to Vietnam.
An unforgettable journey to Vietnam will not be truly completed without exploring historical sites in Vietnam that might help you to see the reflections of the dark side of the S-shaped country heavily impacted by the century-based history of wars and fights for the country's freedom. The article below helps you to have an overview of what was going on and the remaining parts of history. As a top local tour operator in Vietnam, WorldMate Travel will pick up the most outstanding places of historical sites to discover across Vietnam ranging from rudimentary hand-dug tunnels to the prison where many Vietnamese people died for Vietnam’s liberty.
I. Explore historical places in Vietnam that you should not miss
1. Con Dao - A popular historic site in Vietnam
Although the Con Dao prison has been shut down, many horrific memories still linger, casting a forbidding shadow. Serving as a true hell on earth, the Con Dao complex housed over ten thousand Vietnamese prisoners, from those who suffered and perished under the hands of French colonials to those backed by the United States supporting Southern Vietnamese authorities, from 1863 to 1975. These fettered and contorted mannequins bring bone-chilling and unforgettable experiences to life.
2. Hoa Lo Prison
One of the most essential historical sites in Vietnam is Hoa Lo Prison. Unlike many historical museums in Hanoi, which are mainly propagandist and superficial, Hoa Lo Prison offers a genuine portrayal of the city's history. Despite undergoing extensive modern restorations, it retains a sense of its past. Visitors can explore the gloomy spaces that once housed US pilots like Senator John McCain, as well as the grimness and brutality endured by Vietnamese nationalist leaders and revolutionaries during French colonial rule.
3. The Tomb of Khai Dinh
Among the many royal tombs in Hue Imperial City, the former capital of Vietnam, the Tomb of Khai Dinh stands out for its unique fusion of Asian and European elements. Built over 11 years ago, the tomb stands as a symbolic monument to King Khai Dinh's excessive wealth and prosperity, in line with his reputation as a political puppet of the French colonial government.
4. Cu Chi Tunnels
Considered one of Vietnam's enduring historical sites, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-visit for their historical significance. This complex network of underground tunnels was initially established in the late 1940s during French colonial rule and expanded in the early 1960s when the United States escalated its military involvement in South Vietnam to support a non-Communist regime. Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels provides insight into their crucial role in Vietnam's wartime history.
5. My Son Cham Ruins
Another notable historical site in Vietnam is the My Son Cham Ruins, part of the My Son Sanctuary that houses Vietnam's largest Cham ruins. It served as the religious and political center of the Champa Kingdom for centuries. While often compared to the Khmer Kingdom's Angkor Wat, the My Son Cham Ruins have a distinct beauty. Discovered by French archaeologists in the late 19th century, the temple complex suffered heavy damage from US bombing during the Vietnam War.
6. Hue Imperial Citadel
Compared to Beijing's Forbidden City, the Imperial Citadel of Hue was constructed in 1804 and served as the home of the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam's last royal dynasty, for about 143 years. The complex, including the Emperor's residence, gates, temples, and pagodas, suffered extensive damage during French rule and the Vietnam War, with only 20 out of 148 buildings surviving.
7. Cannon Fort
Originally built by the Japanese on Cat Ba Island, Cannon Fort was used during World War II and later by the French during the Indochina War and by Communist forces during the Vietnam War to defend Haiphong City. The underground tunnels and trenches played a crucial role in the country's victory and offer a fascinating panoramic view of the island's hills and sea.
8. Co Loa Citadel
Another significant historical site in Vietnam is the Co Loa Citadel, a crucial location in Vietnam's history. Constructed about 2,300 years ago by King An Duong Vuong, it served as the capital of the Au Lac Kingdom. The site showcases the ingenuity of ancient Vietnamese architecture and provides insight into the country's ancient culture.
9. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu ancient capital offers a glimpse into Vietnam's history during the rule of the Dinh and Le Dynasties. It was a center of politics and international trade in the 10th and 11th centuries, and visitors can explore ancient royal palaces, temples, and other structures from that era.
10. War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum, formerly known as the Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes, is a significant historical site that sheds light on the devastating effects of the Vietnam War. While the museum may present a one-sided view, it offers essential insights into the war's impact, including perspectives from United States sources.
11. Vietnam Military History Museum
The Vietnam Military History Museum in Hanoi tells the story of Vietnam's military history in six main chapters. It covers the struggle for independence, the fight against French colonialism, the victory at Dien Bien Phu, the conflict with the United States in the South, and the resistance against American airpower.
12. B52 Victory Museum
The B52 Victory Museum is dedicated to commemorating the victories against American B52 bombers and provides insights into Hanoi's military history. The museum displays weapons, military equipment, and remnants of B52 aircraft.
13. Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities
As the first museum in Vietnam, the Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities focuses on the nobility of Hue. Visitors can explore fascinating collections that provide insight into the lives and beliefs of the nobility, including a golden throne, a dragon bed, footwear worn by queens, lacquer cabinets, and bronze ware.
II. Why Should Book a Tour with a Reliable Local Tour Operator, World Mate Travel in Vietnam?
As a trusted tourism company in Vietnam, World Mate Travel offers many tour packages ranging from adventurous tours, to meditation tours and more. We are confident in providing experience-leading tourism activities for most tourists across the globe. If you are planning to visit Vietnam or any place in Southeast Asian countries, contact us to get more great deals.