Hai Phong strives to uphold stature of Con Son – Kiep Bac as world heritage site

Standard-based conservation

Con Son – Kiep Bac relic site is a cultural center associated with eminent historical figures such as Tran Hung Dao, Nguyen Trai and Phap Loa. Investment in the site must therefore follow an approach that preserves its original state, safeguards its sacred character, and maintains harmony with the natural landscape.

In line with this orientation, Hai Phong city has agreed to raise investment in the Con Son – Kiep Bac historical and cultural relic conservation project from 100 billion VND to more than 180 billion VND. The project timeline has also been extended to 2026.

Under the revised investment scale, several areas within the relic complex will be restored and upgraded to preserve historical and cultural values. Restoration and renovation work will create a harmonious ecological landscape without altering the functions of the structures or disrupting the traditional layout of this sacred site.

The city People’s Committee has required relevant sectors to compile historical documentation, establish scientific justifications, and expand the planning space to lay the groundwork for subsequent investment phases toward sustainable conservation.

Design adjustments aim not only to create a unified landscape but also to reinforce spiritual elements, preserving the tranquility and solemnity inherent to the Kiep Bac space. Solutions are oriented toward minimizing concrete use and prioritizing natural materials.

Promoting world heritage values

This round of investment in conservation and restoration is intended to preserve a component of a heritage complex with outstanding universal value, while affirming the city’s commitment to safeguarding heritage in line with UNESCO standards.

The project is also expected to elevate Con Son – Kiep Bac into a leading cultural and spiritual tourism center nationwide. With improved infrastructure, expanded space and a coherently upgraded landscape, the site will be better positioned to host large-scale festivals, experiential activities, research and cultural promotion, directly contributing to local socio-economic development.

These objectives can only be achieved if the project is implemented in strict accordance with the city’s stated direction. The overarching requirement is full compliance with heritage and public investment regulations, respect for expert opinions, and the assurance that all interventions within the relic site are grounded in scientific evidence.

Relevant units must proactively seek guidance from the Department of Cultural Heritage under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on project procedures in line with UNESCO guidelines. This is a key principle to ensure international standards in conservation work. Upon completion, the project will help elevate the profile of a Vietnamese heritage site on the global map.

Con Son – Kiep Bac is not only a spiritual destination but also a place that connects history with the present, tradition with development. In Hai Phong’s long-term strategy, the heritage will continue to receive systematic investment, in-depth conservation and creative, sustainable value promotion.

Secretary of the city Party Committee Le Tien Chau has emphasized that Con Son – Kiep Bac is a special national relic site and, together with Yen Tu – Vinh Nghiem relic and scenic complex, has been recognized by UNESCO as world cultural heritage, holding particular significance and serving as a source of pride for Hai Phong city.

Investment in and conservation of historical and cultural relics must fully meet established requirements, while tourism development linked with history should be organized to generate resources for reinvestment in the site, ensuring that it truly merits its status as a special national relic and a world cultural heritage site.

TAM PHUC

TAM PHUC