Advances in Preserving French Architectural Heritage in Vietnam Through International Cooperation

Vietnam possesses many French architectural works bearing the mark of history and culture, from old quarters, villas to public works built during the French colonial period. These works are not only closely associated with the memories of the urban areas but also an important part of the architectural appearance of large cities. Under the influence of urbanization and environmental changes, the need to preserve and promote the value of French architectural heritage in Vietnam has become urgent. Through cooperation with many international partners, especially French regions and cities such as Ile-de-France and Toulouse, this conservation work is making great strides.

For more than three decades, the Ile-de-France region has worked closely with Hanoi in the field of architectural heritage conservation. Since the 1990s, French experts have supported Hanoi in restoring and preserving ancient architectural works such as Chu Van An School, the National Library, and many old quarters in the city center. These works not only have historical value but are also unique cultural symbols, attracting the attention of local people and international tourists. The conservation of architectural heritage does not stop at preserving cultural memories but also contributes to creating momentum to promote economic development and improve the quality of life. In particular, these projects have shifted from a simple cooperation model to more strategic and multi-dimensional projects, focusing on combining heritage conservation with sustainable tourism development and improving the quality of public spaces for Hanoi.

For Hanoians , Long Bien Bridge is not only a bridge connecting the two banks of the Red River but also a historical relic associated with the capital for many decades. Photo: Collected

Hanoi does not stop at preserving old buildings but also applies many lessons from France in designing modern urban areas in harmony with architectural heritage. Mr. Emmanuel Cerise, chief representative of the cooperation program between the Ile-de-France region and Hanoi, commented that Hanoi has great potential to become a city with a unique architectural identity in the region. Ancient structures such as Long Bien Bridge, buildings and the Old Quarter have contributed to shaping Hanoi's unique appearance, creating a difference from many other modern cities. Through cooperation projects, Hanoi has the opportunity to learn from the successful conservation experiences of France, where each new building is carefully considered in terms of design to retain the beauty and value of old architecture. Strict construction rules and the skillful combination of heritage and modern architecture are the secrets that help France maintain the harmonious beauty of cities in the process of urban development.

A testament to successful cooperation in the field of conservation is the project to renovate the ancient house at 87 Ma May and the renovation of Ta Hien Street. These two projects, with the technical support of French experts, have transformed Hanoi's old quarters into outstanding cultural destinations, combining ancient features with modern amenities, creating a vibrant community space. In addition, the project to restore the villa at 49 Tran Hung Dao was also implemented with close cooperation between Hanoi and the Ile-de-France region. This project is not only an example of architectural success but also acts as a center for cultural exchange, opening up opportunities for research and development of French architectural heritage in Hanoi.

In particular, through international cooperation, Hanoi has gathered valuable experience in training human resources for heritage conservation. French experts have participated in conservation work and organized intensive training courses for Vietnamese technicians. Thanks to that, this team has both knowledge of modern conservation techniques and a deep understanding of the importance of preserving indigenous cultural values. These practical courses have equipped Vietnamese architects and workers with the ability to preserve and restore buildings in a comprehensive and sustainable manner, contributing to maintaining the beauty of French architecture right in the heart of Vietnamese cities.

Ancient house at 87 Ma May. Photo: Collected

With a long-term development strategy, Hanoi continues to cooperate with French partners to implement many heritage conservation projects in the coming period. According to the plan, from now until 2025, Hanoi will complete the interior of the villa at 49 Tran Hung Dao and continue to expand research on conservation and promotion of the value of old neighborhoods. Not only limited to maintaining the appearance of the building, these projects also focus on improving the quality of living space and creating conditions for tourists and the community to have closer access to the heritage.

Preserving French architecture in Vietnam through international cooperation is not only a way to preserve heritage but also to promote friendly relations between the two countries. Conservation projects reflect the understanding and respect for cultural heritage, while creating a solid foundation for socio-economic development. Thanks to the support of international partners and domestic efforts, French architectural works in Vietnam will continue to be protected and honored, bringing sustainable value for both the present and the future.

Hoang Anh