The Thang Long Imperial Citadel traces its origins to 1010, when King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Dai La and established Thang Long as the capital of Dai Viet. The site subsequently remained at the centre of Vietnam’s political life through successive dynasties, preserving archaeological layers and architectural remains spanning more than a thousand years.

Today, the heritage complex includes important surviving structures such as Doan Mon Gate, the Hanoi Flag Tower, Kinh Thien Palace Foundation, Hau Lau and North Gate, together with the extensive 18 Hoang Dieu Archaeological Site. Excavations have revealed successive layers of remains from different historical periods, providing valuable insight into the development of Thang Long as a royal capital.

In 2010, the Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List for its historical continuity, archaeological significance and evidence of cultural exchange in the Red River Delta. Today, it offers visitors a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s royal history and the long development of Hanoi as the country’s political and cultural centre.

Today, One Pillar Pagoda forms part of the Ho Chi Minh Complex, together with Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House and Ho Chi Minh Museum. Its compact size and distinctive architecture make it an easy and worthwhile stop when exploring Hanoi’s historic Ba Dinh area.