Hanoi: Imperial archives unveiled

Jenna Duong

Nov 21, 2023 / 07:29 AM

Many important administrative documents issued under the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945) are now on display for the first time.

A thematic exhibition entitled "Imperial Archives of the Nguyen Dynasty - The Soul of a Lost Dynasty" was recently opened at the National Archives Center No. 1 in Hanoi as part of activities to celebrate Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day (November 23).

The exhibition entitled Imperial Archives of the Nguyen Dynasty - The Soul of a Lost Dynasty. Photo: Nguoi lam bao newspaper

Imperial Archives of the Nguyen Dynasty is a system of administrative documents issued by the Nguyen Dynasty, including documents issued by the emperors and documents submitted by agencies in the administrative system to the emperors for approval in scarlet ink. The cabinet of the Nguyen dynasty was responsible for achieving these documents.

Displayed in an impressive space that combines modern lighting systems and installation art, the exhibition promises an exciting experience for visitors.

The thematic exhibition highlights typical documents such as Imperial records under the reign of King Minh Mang in 1838, announcing the adoption of the country's name as Dai Nam; the Imperial records approved by King Tu Duc in 1859; and some records themed Lunar New Year rituals enacted by King Thanh Thai (1879-1954); and others.

An archive of the Nguyen dynasty that proves the sovereignty of Vietnam over the Hoang Sa (Paracel) and Truong Sa (Spratly) islands in the East Sea. Photo: VOV

According to Tran Thi Mai Huong, Director of the National Archives Center No. 1, the Imperial Records of the Nguyen Dynasty were inscribed by UNESCO as documentary heritage in the Asia-Pacific Register in 2014 and as world documentary heritage in 2017.

The Nguyen Dynasty was the last monarchy in Vietnam's history, reigning for 143 years (1802-1945).

The thematic exhibition is open from Monday to Sunday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at the Exhibition Hall, 3rd Floor, National Archives Center No. 1, No. 5 Vu Pham Ham Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi.

The impressive exhibition space. Photo: Nguoi lam bao Newspaper

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