Hoa Lư
Country: Vietnam
Region: Asia
Period: 968-1010
Location: 20.286111°N, 105.906667°E
Description
Hoa Lư, located in present-day Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam, was the capital of the Đại Cồ Việt (also known as the Dai Co Viet) during the reign of the Đinh dynasty (968–980 CE). The city, set in a mountainous area surrounded by limestone karsts, offered a natural fortress for the fledgling Vietnamese state. It played a critical role in the consolidation of Vietnam's independence from China after the fall of the Tang dynasty.
Modern Remains
Today, Hoa Lư is an archaeological and historical site, with many ruins of the Đinh dynasty still visible. The temple complex dedicated to King Đinh Bộ Lĩnh and King Lê Đại Hành, his successor, stands as a significant landmark. The city's natural beauty, characterized by its stunning karst landscapes, continues to attract tourists and historians. Some remnants of ancient buildings, gates, and walls provide insight into the kingdom's architectural and military significance. The site is a key symbol of Vietnam's early independence and royal heritage.