Hanoi

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Bản đồ kinh thành Thăng Long, theo Hồng Đức bản đồ sách 洪德版圖冊 (1490)

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Samuel Baron - The City of CHA-CHO, the Metropolis of TONQUEEN

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Bản vẽ thành Hà Nội

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Evacuation of French troops from Hanoi

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Capture of hanoi 1873

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, known for its centuries-old architecture and a rich culture with Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French influences. At its heart is the chaotic Old Quarter, where the narrow streets are roughly arranged by trade. There are many little temples, including Bach Ma Temple, dating to the 11th century. The city may also be referred to by its old name, Thang Long.

History

The area now known as Hanoi has been inhabited since at least 3000 BC. The city was established as Thang Long, the capital of Imperial Vietnam, in 1010 by Ly Thai To, the first emperor of the Ly Dynasty. It served as the political centre of Vietnam for 800 years, under several dynasties, including the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties. In 1802, when the Nguyen Dynasty moved the capital to Hue, the name Thang Long was changed to Hanoi. In 1873, Hanoi was conquered by the French Empire and became the capital of French Indochina after 1887.

During World War II, Hanoi was occupied by the Japanese from 1940 to 1945. It became the capital of an independent Vietnam after the August Revolution in 1945. However, the city was divided from 1954 to 1976 during the period of the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War, serving as the capital of North Vietnam. It was reunified with the South following the end of the war and has been the capital of Vietnam since.

Geography

Hanoi is located in northern Vietnam, situated in the Vietnamese Red River delta, nearly 90 km (56 mi) inland from the South China Sea. With an area of approximately 3,328.9 square kilometers, the Hanoi metropolitan area is expanding rapidly, reflecting its growth as a hub for culture, politics, and commerce in Vietnam.

Culture

Hanoi is known for its vibrant street food culture and its centuries-old architecture. The city's cuisine is highly regarded, with local specialties such as Pho (a noodle soup), Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli), and various street foods that reflect the city's diverse culinary heritage. Hanoi's culture is a complex intermingling of influences from the Chinese and French colonial periods, alongside traditional Vietnamese elements. This is evident in the city's architecture, arts, music, and literature.

Economy

The economy of Hanoi has traditionally been based on agriculture and handicrafts but has recently been expanding in sectors such as finance, banking, and technology. It is now one of the most rapidly developing cities in Southeast Asia, with sectors like tourism also playing a significant role in its economic growth.

Education

Hanoi is a center of education in Vietnam. It is home to some of the country's most prestigious universities and institutions, including Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, and Hanoi Medical University.

Transportation

Hanoi features a complex network of transportation systems, including roads, railways, and a rapidly developing public transportation system. The Noi Bai International Airport serves as a major gateway for international and domestic flights. The city also introduced its first metro line, which aims to alleviate the chronic traffic congestion.

See Also

• Ho Chi Minh City
• Hue
• Vietnamese culture
• History of Vietnam