Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
The capital of Dai Co Viet under the Dinh and Early Le dynasties from 968 to 1010, before the court moved to Thang Long. Little of the citadel survives; what remains are two 17th-century temples to the founding emperors, set against the karst wall that made the valley defensible.
About Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
The capital of Dai Co Viet under the Dinh and Early Le dynasties from 968 to 1010, before the court moved to Thang Long. Little of the citadel survives; what remains are two 17th-century temples to the founding emperors, set against the karst wall that made the valley defensible.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is one of the places most visitors to Ninh Binh make time for. Ha Long Bay's limestone towers, but standing in rice fields instead of the sea — and only 90 minutes from Hanoi.
Before you go: Small and quiet, and much better with a guide or a read beforehand — the interest is entirely historical rather than visual.
Read the full Ninh Binh travel guideOther places in Ninh Binh
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