From Past to Present: 10 Historical Landmarks of Hanoi
Hanoi nowadays is a perfect combination of peaceful past and bustling present. Check out 10 Hanoi landmarks from past to present to embark on a nostalgic ride.
Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, is where the past and present coexist and harmonize. From its ancient temples and colonial-era architecture to its bustling markets and contemporary cafés, the soul of this fascinating city lies in its layers of time. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through 10 of Hanoi’s historical landmarks, some iconic but some still remain a hidden gem. But each offers a unique glimpse into the past while reflecting the dynamic spirit of the present.
1. Long Bien Bridge
Year of construction: 1899 and 1902
Long Biên Bridge, constructed by the French architects Daydé & Pillé, was first called Paul Doumer Bridge in honor of the French Indochina Governor. Spanning 1,682 meters long across the Red River, The Long Bien Bridge was once the second-longest bridge in the world, behind the Brooklyn Bridge in the United States.
During The Vietnam War, the bridge endured multiple bombings by the US Army and played a critical role as a supply route. After nearly being demolished in 1965 and 1968, it was reconstructed in 1973. Today, with its hues of time, it stands as a significant piece of Hanoi's historical architecture, representing the nation's resilience and heroic past.
2. Saint Joseph Cathedral
Year of construction: 1886-1888
Not far from Hoan Kiem Lake, it’s easy to find another tourist spot in the street of Nhà Thờ: Saint Joseph Cathedral. If you ever visited Notre Dame in Paris, you can relate something similar here. Constructed by French missionaries, Saint Joseph Cathedral is actually modeled after Paris’s famous church with a neo-Gothic style. 2 beautiful bell towers stand beautifully behind a copper statue of Mother Maria. Inside, you can find many intricate stained-glass windows, an elaborate altar and high domes. It is one of the most typical structures of the French colonial period in Hanoi.
With 7.4% of Catholics in Vietnam, the cathedral is a spiritual hub for Hanoi's Catholic community and a prominent landmark in the city. It is also one of the best night spots in Hanoi with dining experience, cafe, cocktail,...
3. Quan Thanh Temple
Year of construction: 1010
Quán Thánh Temple, also called Trấn Vũ Temple, was built in the eleventh century under Emperor Lý Thái Tổ. It was constructed as a tribute to the Taoist deity of the North, Trấn Vũ.
Being one of Hanoi's Four Sacred Temples, it serves as a major place of devotion for Taoists and guards the city from evil spirits. Entering the main hall, you’ll be struck by the black bronze statue of Huyen Thien Tran Vu, sophisticatedly carved by masterful artisans in the 11th century. Its mystical atmosphere and stunning architecture make it a must-see for anyone interested in Hanoi’s spiritual heritage.
4. Hanoi Opera House
Year of construction: 1901-1911
The Hanoi Opera House is a remarkable architectural landmark located at the half end of Trang Tien Street. It was designed by French architects Broyer and Harvy, who took inspiration from Paris's Palais Garnier to demonstrate the might of French influence in Indochina.
Today, in addition to being a representation of French colonial architecture in Vietnam, it is now a significant cultural center that hosts a number of significant political and cultural events.
5. Quan Chuong Gate
Year of construction: 1749
During the medieval time, there were 21 gates of Thang Long Citadel but only 1 remains now, which is Quan Chuong Gate. It was built in during King Le Hien Tong’s reign. Its original name was Dong Ha Gate (East River gate) and later when a Viet commander and his 100 soldiers died while defending this gate, it gained the current name “Quan Chuong”. The gate serves as a historical reminder of Hanoi's history, signifying the city's resilience and strategic significance across time.
6. Hoan Kiem District Police
Year of construction: 1887
During the French colonial period, the Hoan Kiem District Police Station served as a center for administrative control and law enforcement.
Despite a lot of historical events in Hanoi, this building’s design and architecture still remain the same as its original appearance. It reflects perfectly the signature style of colonial architecture: light yellow paint, highlighted blue wooden window. The Hoàn Kiếm District Police Station is one of the signature landmarks of Hanoi that you should take a look at if you're into French architecture.
7. Hoa Phong Tower and Hanoi Post Office
Hoa Phong Tower: 1842 | Hanoi Post Office: 1910
Both locations are presently divided by Dinh Tien Hoang Street, although they were once parts of Bao An Pagoda, which was constructed in 1842 during the Nguyen Dynasty. Hòa Phong Tower, which offers a view of Hoan Kiem Lake, is the last remaining structure that can be visited even today.
The opposite of Hòa Phong Tower is now called the Hanoi Post Office, featured by neoclassical and Art Deco architectural styles and serves as a hub for postal services and remains a key historical landmark.
8. Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square
Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square is situated to the northeast of Hoan Kiem Lake, facing the Ham Ca Map Building. The square is also the intersection of 5 famous streets of the capital city: Le Thai To, Hang Dao, Hang Gai, Dinh Tien Hoang, and Cau Go. It was named Place Négrier when the French took over. However, the name was changed to Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc (meaning Thang Long School of Righteousness) as a way to honor the founders of the same-name private school.
At present, Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc is the signature landmark for the young to gather up at the weekend. Its prime location also set the stage for numerous cultural events or year-end countdowns.
9. Trang Tien Boulevard
To name the most opulent street in Hanoi, Trang Tien Boulevard is definitely on the top list. It stretches approximately 710 meters from Tran Quang Khai to Hoan Kiem Lake, going over many other historical buildings such as Hanoi Opera House, Bank of France, luxury hotels, restaurants, and malls.
Its spirit stays the same now as this bustling street is a commercial hub and cultural artery of Hanoi, known for its historical landmarks, upscale shopping, and dining experiences.
10. Tran Quoc Pagoda
Year of construction: 6th century
Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the oldest (over 1400 years) and most iconic Buddhist temples in Vietnam, located on the banks of West Lake in Hanoi. The pagoda has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries, but it still retains much of its original Vietnamese architectural style, with distinctive red lacquered pillars and a series of curved roofs that give it a graceful, tiered appearance.
Tran Quoc Pagoda is not just a historical monument; it is also a functioning Buddhist temple, where monks and devotees continue to practice and uphold the teachings of Buddhism. Nowadays, Tran Quoc pagoda is one of the most popular tourist attraction in Hanoi with fantastic views of the West Lake, making it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
