Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, is part of the Trang An Landscape Complex, a renowned tourist attraction in Vietnam. In June 2014, the Trang An Complex was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hoa Lu not only showcases the majestic beauty of nature but also holds the history of 10th-century Vietnam, a period marked by many significant events.

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1. Location of Hoa Lu

Today, the ancient capital of Hoa Lu is situated in Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province. It is now a complex of historical relics that attracts many domestic and international travelers.

Hoa Lu tells the story of Vietnam's first two centralized feudal states: the Dinh and Le dynasties.

2. History of Hoa Lu

In the mid-10th century, Dinh Bo Linh unified the country after defeating 12 warlords who had divided the territory. In 968, he became king and named the country Dai Co Viet, marking Vietnam's first absolute monarchy. After Dinh Bo Linh's assassination in 980, his young son briefly succeeded him. Facing the threat of invasion by the Chinese Song Dynasty, General Le Hoan was placed on the throne to lead the country. He successfully repelled the invasion, establishing the Le Dynasty.

Although Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam for only 42 years, it embodies the history of the Dinh and Le dynasties. The site was chosen for its natural defenses, surrounded by high mountains forming a protective barrier.

3. What to see and do in the ancient capital of Hoa Lu

While the ancient capital is no longer intact, you can visit the King Dinh Temple and the King Le Temple, built by the locals to commemorate these significant rulers.

King Dinh Temple

As mentioned earlier, King Dinh was the ruler of Vietnam's first centralized feudal state. He unified the region and is thus a very important figure in history. To commemorate and honor him, the locals built this temple. In the King Dinh Temple, locals also worship his sons, wives, and subordinates. The temple faces Ma Yen Mountain, where King Dinh's tomb is located.

King Le Temple

Situated 500 meters from the King Dinh Temple, this smaller temple is dedicated to King Le, the founder of the Le Dynasty. It also honors some members of his family and his generals. Both temples showcase ancient Vietnamese architecture and house centuries-old statues that reflect the art of Vietnamese sculpture.

Nhat Tru Pagoda

Nhat Tru Pagoda was built in the 10th century, making it over 1,000 years old. This pagoda was used for meetings between monks, who held a high status in society and were often invited by the king to discuss national issues. Nhat Tru means "One Pillar," as the pagoda has an eight-sided pillar inscribed with Buddha's teachings. Approximately 2,500 characters are written on these eight sides, created around 995. It is one of Vietnam's national treasures.

4. Other tourist attractions in the area

After exploring Hoa Lu, don't miss other remarkable sites in the region, such as Tam Coc, Bich Dong, Trang An Ecotourism Area, Thung Nham (Bird Valley), Galaxy Cave, Am Tien Cave, and Cuc Phuong National Park.

• Cuc Phuong National Park: Your next nature getaway
• Am Tien: Escape to a vietnamese haven of peace
• Tam Coc, the Halong Bay on land: Your next adventure

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