Cao Bang Unveils New Archaeological Treasures from Ancient Dynasties

via Vietnam Plus, 27 December 2023: Recent archaeological excavations in Cao Bang, Vietnam, have unveiled significant findings at Ban Phu Citadel, Na Lu Citadel, and Ban Thanh hamlet. Artifacts dating back to various dynasties, including the Ly, Tran, Le So, and Mac dynasties of Vietnam, and the Tang and Ming dynasties of China, were discovered. The discoveries suggest that Ban Phu Citadel dates back to the 17th century, aligning with the Mac clan’s retreat to Cao Bang. Meanwhile, Na Lu Citadel’s rich history spans from the Tang Dynasty to its use by the Mac clan in the 16th century. The limited scope of the excavations, however, means precise historical conclusions are yet to be made, and there is an urgent need for preservation efforts.

Recent archaeological findings at Ban Phu Citadel, Na Lu Citadel, and Ban Thanh hamlet in the northern mountainous province of Cao Bang were released on December 26.

To shed new light on historical issues in Cao Bang, the Institute of Archaeology under the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences recently coordinated with the Cao Bang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism to conduct excavations of Ban Phu Citadel (Hung Dao commune, Cao Bang city), Na Lu Citadel (Hoang Tung commune, Hoa An district), and Ban Thanh hamlet (Hung Dao commune, Hoa An district).

According to historical records, Ban Phu Citadel was where three kings of the Mac Dynasty (1527 – 1592), namely Mac Kinh Cung, Mac Kinh Khoan, and Mac Kinh Vu, granted audiences.

Source: New archaeological findings in Cao Bang announced | Culture – Sports | Vietnam+ (VietnamPlus)