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Located in Dong Anh district, Hanoi, Co Loa Citadel is one of Vietnam's most important and unique historical relics. Built in the 3rd century BC during the reign of An Duong Vuong, it served as the capital of the Au Lac kingdom and later of the feudal state under Ngo Quyen in the 10th century AD.
The moss-covered walls and tiled roofs transport visitors back in time.
Freelance photographer Tuyen Parafu, who is passionate about capturing ancient scenes, had the opportunity to visit Co Loa Ancient Citadel and share his profound experiences there. Although he had heard of and known about Co Loa Ancient Citadel before, this was his first time exploring Vietnam's largest ancient citadel with a history of over 2000 years.
Upon entering the historical site, Tuyen Parafu was surprised by the peacefulness of the Northern Vietnamese countryside. He shared: "The first thing that surprised me was the tranquility of the village and the ancient citadel. Many aspects of the old Northern Vietnamese countryside and its way of life have been preserved and maintained remarkably well." The winding village roads, ancient houses, and lush green spaces create a serene picture, evoking memories of the past.
This is also an ideal place to take photos in traditional Vietnamese ao dai dresses.
The Co Loa Citadel was built with a unique architecture, consisting of three concentric earthen ramparts with a total length of 15,820 km. The citadel was constructed following the natural terrain, connecting mounds, hills, and elevated strips of land along the river, surrounded by moats connected to the Hoang River. Notably, the citadel features protruding earthen mounds, known as "fire ramparts," creating a strong defensive structure.
During his exploration, Tuyen Parafu was impressed by the historical stories and legends associated with Co Loa Ancient Citadel. He expressed: "Hearing descriptions of the architecture, the history of its formation, and the preservation process of the relics is something I will always remember because of the rich history that the ancient citadel has gone through." The legends of An Duong Vuong, My Chau - Trong Thuy, and the magic crossbow have become an indispensable part of Vietnamese folklore.
A sense of solemnity and antiquity permeates every architectural detail.
Co Loa Citadel is not only a historical site but also a bridge between the past and the present, helping the younger generation better understand the nation's history. Tuyen Parafu commented: "I think Co Loa Citadel is a place where history is deeply imprinted, helping young people like us to access, listen to, see, and touch 'history' in the most visual way."
Compared to other historical sites, Co Loa Ancient Citadel possesses a high degree of "originality," as its intangible heritage system, including unique folk customs, festivals, and traditional craft villages, is still preserved and promoted. It is also a treasure trove of historical and cultural heritage, preserving many valuable artifacts hundreds of years old. During excavations, archaeologists have discovered ancient tombs, bronze axes, bronze drums, tens of thousands of three-edged bronze arrowheads, and arrowhead molds. All these artifacts are carefully preserved, becoming an attractive highlight for tourists to visit and admire.
A peaceful space imbued with the atmosphere of a Northern Vietnamese village.
To attract young people, Tuyen Parafu suggested: "Co Loa Ancient Citadel will attract young people to come and check in with its ancient atmosphere, village corners, and unique festivals, but it is also a way for young people to gradually have the opportunity to see the glorious historical flow of their nation."
Co Loa Ancient Citadel is not only a historical witness but also an attractive tourist destination, where visitors can immerse themselves in the ancient atmosphere, learn about the past, and feel the peaceful rhythm of life in the Northern Vietnamese countryside. The experiences here will surely leave a deep and unforgettable impression on every visitor.
