vietexplorer0016

International guests to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Hanoi are awe-struck by its rare archaeological artifacts, particularly the ancient dragon imagery that has been intertwined with Vietnam’s history for centuries. Travelers on a night tour of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. Photo: Hanoitourist The dragon, a potent symbol of authority in Eastern cultures, is prominently featured on swords, utensils, seals, terracotta, gold, bronze, jade, and wooden artifacts, as well as ceremonial objects and architectural details from the ancient capital. Ultimate Symbol of Power in Eastern Cultures While dragon motifs were present in earlier periods of Vietnam’s history, they became more prevalent after the establishment of the site known as Thang Long, the name bestowed upon Dai La by Emperor Ly Cong Uan upon relocating the capital from mountainous Hoa Lu to the banks of the grand Nhi Ha River (now known as the Red River ). As describ...