Traveling is a wonderful adventure that requires careful preparation and a wealth of knowledge. To ensure you have the most convenient and enjoyable trip, it’s important to have a deep understanding of your destination. Today, let’s delve into the world of Vietnamese ancient architecture and discover the mesmerizing architectural gems that await you.
Unearthing the Beauty of Classic Architecture
Classical architecture is a deliberate revival of the architectural principles that originated in ancient Greece between the 7th and 4th centuries BC. It draws inspiration from the grandeur of Roman and Greek architecture, emphasizing order, symmetry, geometry, and perspective. The Parthenon, an iconic masterpiece created in 5th century BC by the ancient Greeks, exemplifies the essence of classical architecture. With its intricate design and timeless allure, the classic style continues to captivate the hearts of many. From houses to hotels and cafes, this design style finds its place in the interior architecture industry.
The Elegance of Classic Design Style
Classic design style originated in ancient Rome, characterized by its meticulous attention to impeccable balance, elaborate textures, and limited color palettes. This architectural style appeals to those who appreciate tradition and seek perfection with a touch of nostalgia. True to its principles, classical architecture leaves no room for modern lines or secrets – it adheres faithfully to the established design principles. The rigorous adherence to these principles has enabled classical architecture to achieve remarkable standards of design and artistic perfection.
Ancient Vietnamese Architectural Marvels You Must Explore
One Pillar Pagoda: A Unique Architectural Wonder
Located in the heart of Hanoi, the One Pillar Pagoda is a true testament to Vietnamese ancient architecture. It has been honored as “The pagoda with Vietnamese ancient architecture unique in Asia” by the Organization of Asian Records. Built in 1049 by King Ly Thai Tong, this architectural gem has stood the test of time for nearly a millennium. The original design consisted of a Lien Hoa station, each measuring 3 meters, with a curved roof resting on a cylindrical column in the middle of a square lake. Throughout the centuries, the temple underwent several renovations. The current design, restored in 1955, features a square structure with a roofing system adorned by four curved roofs, symbolizing dragon heads. The most remarkable feature of this temple is its single stone pillar that supports the entire structure.
Sword Lake Turtle Tower: Embodying Vietnamese Old House Architecture
Nestled within the Ho Guom complex lies the Turtle Tower, an impressive showcase of Vietnamese old house architecture. This square-shaped tower with three floors gradually narrows towards the top. Its east and west sides are adorned with three roll-up doors, while the north and south faces feature two sharp roll-up doors. The top two floors boast a distinctive railing design, and the tower is crowned with a renowned five-pointed humanoid sculpture.
Han River Bridge: The Unique Swing Bridge of Vietnam
The Han River Bridge stands as Vietnam’s sole swing bridge, designed and constructed entirely by Vietnamese engineers and workers. Measuring 487.7 meters in length and 12.9 meters in width, with 11 spans of 33 meters each, this bridge features a prestressed reinforced concrete structure. Its main bridge girder and tower structure are made of steel, while the bridge deck is constructed using reinforced concrete.
At 12:30 every day, the central part of the bridge rotates 90 degrees, following the flow of the river, to open the way for large ships to pass. At around 3:30 am, it returns to its original position. The Han River Bridge has not only become an architectural marvel but also represents the economic growth of Danang. Its breathtaking beauty at night attracts numerous tourists who come to admire its splendor.
Quoc Tu Giam Temple: A Symbol of Knowledge and Education
Situated in Hanoi’s Dong Da and Ba Dinh districts, the Quoc Tu Giam Temple, also known as the Temple of Literature, is a historical and architectural masterpiece. It holds deep significance as a symbol of knowledge and education in Vietnam. The temple is divided into two main areas: Van Mieu, dedicated to the worship of Confucian ancestors, and Quoc Tu Giam, a training school for Confucian intellectuals. With its intricate design, the temple offers a glimpse into the unique ancient architectural legacy of Vietnam. It serves as a haven where students and visitors alike seek blessings for a prosperous and successful academic journey.
Hue Imperial Citadel: An Emblem of Vietnamese Ancient Architecture
The Hue Imperial Citadel, also known as Hoang Thanh, was established in 1804 and completed in 1833. It encompasses more than 100 buildings and is constructed with brick walls that stand approximately 4 meters high and 1 meter thick. The Citadel spans almost squarely, with each side measuring about 600 meters. It boasts four entrance gates: Ngo Mon in the south, Hien Nhon in the east, Chuong Duc in the west, and Hoa Binh in the north. The architecture of the Hue Imperial Citadel harmoniously blends the quintessence of Eastern and Western architectural styles. Surrounding this grand architectural masterpiece is the breathtaking natural landscape of Hue, featuring Ngu Binh Mountain, Huong Giang Stream, Phuong Dinh, and Hien Lam Cac. The Hue Imperial Citadel is an absolute must-visit for those seeking to experience and appreciate Vietnamese ancient architecture in all its glory.
In Conclusion
Thank you for joining me on this architectural journey through the magnificent world of Vietnamese ancient architecture. I hope the information shared here has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration. May your travels be filled with joy, discovery, and success.
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