9 artisans – 4 years hard work.   All done with the motive of giving a fitting tribute to Hanoi on the occasion of its millenial anniversary.   The gift is in the form of a giant hand embroidered artistic piece titled : “Aspiration of 1000 year Thang Long”.

Background of  Thang Long

The central old citadel of Hanoi was the earlier home of Vietnamese monarchs dating back when the city was known as Thang Long.   The citadel was constructed by the Ly dynasty in 1010 and remained the seat of the Vietnamese court until 1810, when Hu became the capital city. The royal palaces and other various structures were largely destroyed by the colonial French in the late 19th century. Some structures remain such as Doan Mon gate and the Flag Tower of Hanoi, as well as the steps of Kinh Thiên Palace and the Hu Lâu (Princess’ Palace).   The Vietnamese military command under General Giap, who was the hero in the wars against the colonial French and the Americans, had its headquarters in the citadel in the building known as D67. An underground tunnel enabled the military to flee to other parts in case of a raid.   Construction work for the National Assembly building in 2003 uncovered large remains of the citadel dating back to Thang Long. Some of the remains are now exhibited in the Vietnamese History Museum. Where the planned new National Assembly building should not be located is still open.   Starting in 2000, some of the old French barracks and buildings have been destroyed to make place for a new museum within the citadel.   The citadel is shortlisted to be included as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006 as “The Cultural Heritage Complex of Thang Long – Hanoi”

Giant Embroidery

This 4m long by 3m wide embroidery entitled, “Aspiration of 1000-year-old Thang Long”, was made by nine artisans and took over four years to complete.   This piece will be displayed at the “Artistic atmosphere of the ancient citadel” festival in the Thang Long Royal Citadel.    Hanoi authorities have approved the 20 billion dong “Artistic atmosphere of the ancient citadel” project, which will be held from April 1 to October 30 2010.   This festival will comprise a flower festival and an embroidery exhibition in the Thang Long royal citadel.
Vo Van Quan, the founder of XQ Vietnam Embroidery Company, said on April 28 that the Co Loa-Hanoi Ancient Citadel Preservation Centre handed over 10,000sq.m in the Thang Long Royal Citadel to the “Artistic atmosphere of the ancient citadel” project.    Aside form the above-mentioned embroidery, 12 new and unique embroideries will be exhibited at the festival, surrounded by all special flower species. A small stage will be built for artists to play traditional musical instruments.    This event, according to organizers, will be a festival of flowers, music, embroidery and tea so it will be very romantic. The festival will be open for free.

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