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"Wherever there is Vietnam, there is the Ancient Citadel."
A wreath of fire connects Khe Sanh.
A medal is hard to come by, brick by brick.
Every inch of land, every second, every leaf and branch."
This place, once echoing with the roar of bombs and bullets, once bearing the footprints of outstanding sons and daughters in the struggle for independence and freedom, has become an integral part of the nation's history. Therefore, April 30th is not merely a commemoration, but a grand celebration, a symbol of national spirit and the aspiration for peace. On this occasion, local people and visitors from all over the country come together to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of meaningful events, cultural activities, and traditional festivals, to remember the glorious past, to pay tribute to those who fell for independence and freedom, and to look forward to a brighter future.
Hien Luong Bridge - Aspiration for the reunification of the country.
Following the 1954 Geneva Accords, the Ben Hai River and Hien Luong Bridge became historical witnesses, directly bearing the brunt of the pain of national division. The once peaceful river suddenly transformed into a cruel boundary, separating the two banks and dividing people of the same blood. For 21 long years, countless generations of our people lived in a state of "two halves of the country, two regions," each person in a different place, longing for the day of reunification.
The Hien Luong - Ben Hai area is a place that witnessed the pain of the division of the two regions.
Spanning the Ben Hai River, Hien Luong Bridge is also the only bridge in the world with two different paint colors.
Throughout those years, under the rain of bombs and bullets rained down from the enemy, Hien Luong Bridge was not just a bridge, but became a symbol of division, of pain and loss, but at the same time a symbol of the indomitable will and resilience of the nation.
And amidst that suffering, the red flag with a yellow star still proudly flew atop the demarcation line, a resolute affirmation of sacred sovereignty and the burning desire for national reunification. That flag became a symbol of faith, hope, and immense spiritual strength, urging the people of the South to persevere in the fight, overcome all hardships and sacrifices, and achieve resounding victories, contributing to the great victory of Spring 1975, so that the country could be united, North and South reunited.
Quang Tri was the first province in Southern Vietnam to be liberated, contributing to the overall victory of the nation, liberating the South and unifying the country. Therefore, every year on April 30th, Quang Tri province organizes the Flag-Raising Ceremony commemorating the reunification of the country, attracting the attention of people from within and outside the province. Many cultural and artistic activities, as well as traditional boat races, are also organized to celebrate this important event.
The "border line flagpole" located on the north bank of the Ben Hai River is also a historical witness to the "flag battle" between the two sides of the border region after the Geneva Accords in 1954.
Vinh Moc Tunnels: An "unbelievable" underground miracle.
Located approximately 13 km north of Hien Luong Bridge, visitors will find a historical wonder, a vivid testament to the war: the Vinh Moc Tunnels. This magnificent structure is situated in Vinh Thach commune (now Kim Thach commune), Vinh Linh district, Quang Tri province. To create this tunnel system, with a total length of 2.8 km, the people of Vinh Linh and the local armed forces had to endure 18,000 days of arduous labor, digging and transporting more than 6,000 m³ of material.3The land and rocks were battered by the enemy's bombs and bullets.
Every meter of the tunnels, every underground chamber, is steeped in the sweat, tears, and even blood of the people who lived there. The Vinh Moc tunnels were not only a safe haven for about 60 families, but also an "impregnable fortress," where our soldiers and civilians lived, fought, produced, and sheltered revolutionary cadres.
Today, the Vinh Moc Tunnels have become an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists. It not only attracts history enthusiasts and those interested in learning about the Vietnam War, but also serves as an ideal destination for those who enjoy exploring unique architectural structures, legendary stories, and profound cultural values. Visiting the Vinh Moc Tunnels, tourists will witness firsthand the marvels of the structure, hear moving stories about the unsung heroes, and deeply feel the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people.
Quang Tri Ancient Citadel: 81 heroic days and nights
Quang Tri Ancient Citadel, a special national monument of Vietnam, is not only a historical architectural structure but also a symbol of the indomitable spirit, unwavering will, and aspiration for peace of the Vietnamese people. Located on the main road, right in the center of Quang Tri town, the citadel was built in the early 19th century with the initial purpose of protecting Quang Tri town. However, over the course of history, it has become a historical witness, marking significant events, especially the extremely fierce and tragic 81-day and 81-night battle during the Spring-Summer campaign of 1972.
A place that fostered an uncompromising spirit in the face of military aggression.
The victory of the Spring-Summer 1972 campaign, culminating in the battle to defend the Quang Tri Citadel, not only liberated a vast area but also had immense strategic significance, shocking domestic and international public opinion, shaking the United States, thwarting the US imperialist intentions to escalate the war, and playing a crucial role in forcing them to resume negotiations and sign the Paris Agreement, opening the door to peace.
Today, Quang Tri Ancient Citadel is a historical site steeped in spirituality, a sacred "red address" attracting tourists from all over the country and international friends to learn about it. Visiting Quang Tri Ancient Citadel, tourists not only admire a unique architectural structure but also relive heroic historical moments, listening to tragic stories about the outstanding sons and daughters of the nation – young men and women in their late teens and early twenties who set aside their studies and dreams to take up arms and fight for the liberation of the Fatherland. Their noble sacrifice has enriched the golden pages of the nation's history, and Quang Tri Ancient Citadel will forever remain a shining symbol of Vietnam's patriotism and aspiration for peace.
Truong Son Cemetery – the resting place of thousands of heroic martyrs.
The cemetery is located on Ben Tat hill, next to National Highway 15, in Vinh Truong commune, Gio Linh district, Quang Tri province, about 38km northwest of Dong Ha city. It is considered the most massive, grandest, and most artistic memorial, solemnly and movingly expressing the deep remembrance, gratitude, and silent veneration of the entire nation for the beloved sons and daughters from all over the country who sacrificed their lives and blood for the just cause.
The Truong Son Martyrs' Cemetery has a total area of 140,000 m².2Truong Son Martyrs' Cemetery is home to 10,333 graves of martyrs who bravely sacrificed their lives on the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail during the resistance war against the US. Each grave here tells a story of courage, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of Vietnamese sons and daughters who fell for the independence and freedom of their homeland. Visiting Truong Son Martyrs' Cemetery, tourists will be immersed in a solemn and moving atmosphere, learning more about the heroic and tragic history of the nation, about the glorious battles and silent sacrifices.
This place is considered the most massive and grandest monument of gratitude and remembrance.
With all that in mind, Quang Tri is a fantastic destination for those who want to learn about history, explore natural beauty, and experience the unique cultural values of Central Vietnam. If you're planning a trip, especially during the April 30th holiday, don't forget to include Quang Tri on your list of must-see destinations!
