Documenting the illustrious cultural and historical legacy of Vietnam, the Museum of Vietnamese History in Ho Chi Minh City is an engaging tourist attraction for the masses. Tucked away within the lush confines of the city’s Botanic Gardens the venue is housed within an imposing French colonial structure in Nguyen Binh Khiem Street. Occupying pride of place in the nation’s capital this educational institution has served as one of the city’s most dynamic points of interest to date. Charting the country’s progress from the prehistoric era to the golden Nguyen Dynastic period this spacious venue littered with relics and artefacts is one of the best reasons to tour the bustling metropolis that is Ho Chi Minh.

Dubbed the Musée Blanchard de la Brosse and later the National Museum of Viet Nam in Sai Gon in previous decades, the museum was designed by Auguste Delaval in the latter half of the 1920’s. Named the Museum of Vietnamese History as early as 1979, the site displays relics and ancient artefacts representing all periods in the country’s tumultuous history. Focusing mainly on the nation’s southern region the site’s chief attraction is of course the museum’s collection of Cham statues and sculpture work that is regarded as the finest collection of ancient ceramic wares in all of Vietnam.

Other highlights include weapons of various sizes and shapes dating back to the 14th century and moving forward. A yard full of cannons is another attractive exhibit. The wing dedicated to the ethnic minorities of southern Vietnam is equally intriguing as it includes costumes, photos and household appliances. The famed Nguyen dynastic period is also explored with elaborate clothing items and home wares while preserved remains of a human from 1869 is also part of the exhibits on show at the venue.

Archaeological findings from Saigon’s prehistoric era is also displayed alongside remnants of 19th and 20th century events that are explored using photographs while other points of interest in the museum include bronze and stone statues from Champa and Cambodia and Dong Son cultural items from the Metal Age. The Tran, Ho, Anterior Le, Ngo, Ly and Dinh dynasties also feature prominently at the museum which hosts water puppet performances at the site’s cosy theatre on certain days of the week.

Travellers in search of a luxury service apartment in Ho Chi Minh City should look no further than Somerset Vista Ho Chi Minh City. Providing guests with the best in modern comforts, this elegant rest features some of the finest serviced apartments Ho Chi Minh has on offer.

 

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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