Thang Long Imperial Citadel shimmers in “digital ecosystem”

The Thang Long–Ha Noi Heritage Conservation Centre officially premiered a light-based art production titled “Capital of Thang Long”, featuring 3D mapping technology and a digital experiential space, at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel World Heritage Site, Ha Noi, on December 30.

Doan Mon Gate becomes a portal transporting audiences back in time through the production “Capital of Thang Long”.
Doan Mon Gate becomes a portal transporting audiences back in time through the production “Capital of Thang Long”.

Under the theme “Echoes of the Ly Dynasty”, inspired by the defining imprints of the Ly Dynasty — the dynasty that founded Thang Long — the production recreates a glorious chapter of history that laid the foundations for the nation’s cultural and spiritual identity. The highlight is a large-scale 3D mapping projection set against the Doan Mon relic, guiding audiences through a “time gate” back to the year 1009. Throughout the programme, historical vignettes are vividly rendered through a fusion of sound, light, and real architectural space, far surpassing conventional documentary formats.

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Delegates launch the production “Capital of Thang Long” using 3D mapping technology and a digital experiential space.

With immersive, multi-sensory technology at its core, “Echoes of the Ly Dynasty” establishes a digital heritage ecosystem at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. The use of technology here is not merely illustrative, it serves as the “soul” that connects past and present, transforming dry historical records into a compelling journey of discovery.

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The history of Thang Long is vividly recreated through technology.

Speaking at the event, Nguyen Thanh Quang, Director of the Thang Long–Ha Noi Heritage Conservation Centre, said that “Capital of Thang Long”, together with the Imperial Citadel’s digital experiential space, was developed to bring heritage closer to the public, especially younger generations, through intuitive and engaging formats. The initiative introduces a fresh approach to accessing heritage, enhances interaction between visitors and the relic space, improves the overall quality of the visitor experience, enriches the capital’s cultural tourism offerings, and effectively implements Ha Noi’s strategy for digital transformation and cultural industry development, gradually shaping a digital heritage ecosystem.

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Artefacts are brought to life through modern technology.

Visitors can also interact with an AI-powered virtual receptionist acting as an intelligent tour guide. The system is capable of real-time interaction, answering visitors’ questions about the Ly Dynasty and Vietnamese history in natural speech, complemented by vivid visual illustrations.

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Young audiences are captivated by the spectacular performance.

In addition, the public can explore information kiosks with intuitive touchscreens, enabling users to independently look up detailed information on the lives of Ly kings, notable artefacts, and iconic architectural works. Another highlight is the AI-powered Selfie Render technology, which seamlessly integrates visitors’ faces into Ly Dynasty-era costumes with high accuracy. Visitors can instantly obtain “time-travelling” photographs, transform into historical figures, and preserve memorable moments connected to the nation’s heritage.

NDO
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