The construction of the museum began in 2019, and it spans an impressive 386,600 square meters. So, besides a thirst for knowledge, Gen Z also needs to prepare their physical stamina to explore over 150,000 artifacts in this vast museum!
The Victory Tower, standing tall at 45 meters, symbolizes Vietnam’s independence in 1945. (Photo: Tien Phong Newspaper)
The first highlight that youngsters shouldn’t miss is the majestic Victory Tower, which stands at a height of 45 meters, symbolizing the year 1945 when Vietnam gained its independence. The tower’s base is shaped like a pentagon, representing the five classes of Socialist society: workers, farmers, intellectuals, military personnel, and entrepreneurs.
The tower’s body is designed with multiple layers, signifying the generations of ancestors who bravely sacrificed themselves to protect the country’s independence and the iconic red flag with a yellow star, proudly flying at the tower’s peak.
On the right and left wings of the tower are outdoor exhibition areas. The right side displays artifacts captured from the French colonialists and American imperialists during the wars, while the left side showcases the weapons used by the Vietnamese military in the two resistance wars, including tanks, airplanes, and missiles.
Outside the exhibition area, you’ll find symbolic representations of a plane wreckage and a mirror, reflecting Vietnam’s love for peace.
Outdoor exhibition area showcasing various artifacts. (Photo: Tien Phong Newspaper)
The museum employs modern exhibition methods, such as 3D mapping sand tables, information screens, automatic audio guides, and QR codes for artifact inquiries.
Every corner of the museum impresses visitors with its modernity and offers a realistic experience, making them feel immersed in the glorious historical memories of the nation.
Glimpse of the museum’s impressive interior. (Photo: Tien Phong Newspaper)
The 150,000 artifacts in the museum are categorized into six themes, offering visitors a comprehensive journey through Vietnam’s history. These themes include: Founding and Defending the Nation from 700 BC to 938 AD; Protecting Independence from 939 to 1858; Resisting the French Colonialists and Regaining National Independence from 1858 to 1945; The First Resistance War against the French Colonialists from 1945 to 1954; The Second Resistance War against the American Imperialists from 1954 to 1975; and Building and Defending the Country from 1976 to the present.
Many glorious battles of the nation are recreated through intricate sand tables, such as the Battle of Bach Dang in 938. Additionally, famous weapons like the Lien Chau crossbow from the time of King An Duong Vuong are on display, along with recreated scenes like Hanoi during the resistance war…
The museum recreated Hanoi’s image from 1946, which served as the backdrop for the popular movie “Dao, Pho, and Piano” released earlier this year. (Photo: People’s Army Newspaper)
The Vietnam Military History Museum also attracts attention as it exhibits four National Treasures associated with significant milestones in Vietnam’s history. This is one of the most anticipated areas for young visitors.
In the main lobby, visitors can admire the “Silver Swallow” MiG-21 fighter jet with the serial number 4324, which shot down 14 enemy planes during the resistance war against America.
Photos: People’s Army Newspaper, Tien Phong Newspaper
The second important treasure on display is the legendary T54B tank with the serial number 843. This tank rammed through the side gate of the Independence Palace, marking the liberation of the South and the reunification of the country.
The third treasure is the MiG-21 fighter jet with the serial number 5121, which shot down the first B52 bomber over Hanoi’s sky in 1972.
Lastly, there is the Ho Chi Minh Campaign Determination Map from 1975.
The tank with the serial number 843, which rammed through the gate of the Independence Palace. (Photo: Tien Phong Newspaper and People’s Army Newspaper)
The Vietnam Military History Museum will officially open its doors to visitors on November 1st, offering free admission until the end of December this year.