The Old Quarter in Hanoi, Vietnam -- Sightseeing

Hanoi Old Quarter - Vietnam

View Photos (3) Image © 2010 Allison Dinh

URL:

http://vietnamhotels.net/travelguide/ha-noi/Attractions/The-Old-Quarter-in-Hanoi/

Description:

Where is the Old Quarter located?

Located between the Lake of the Restored Sword, the Long Bien Bridge, a former city rampart, and a citadel wall, the Old Quarter (consisting of 36 old streets inside) started as a snake and alligator-infested swamp.

How old are the streets?

It would be a big surprise should you know that Hanoi's Old Quarter came into being at the time King Ly Thai To selected Thang Long as the country’s capital in 1010, that is, the streets have a nearly 1,000-year old history and became crowded & lively in 15th century.

What are their names’ origins?

Due to their long-lasting age, they are called “Old Quarter” or “36 Old Streets” (as consisting of 36 member streets). Similarly to the Guilded age of Europe, “Ha Noi's 36 districts” is Vietnam's version of the guild concept. In the past, as artisans moved to the capital city to do business, they gathered together in this area to share the resources.

Published on 9/23/10