VietNamNet Bridge – The exciting Tran dynasty (1225-1400), which repelled the Yuan-Mongols on three occasions and ended up being the most brilliant reign in Vietnamese history, is to be celebrated at a major festival in Nam Dinh Province at the beginning of next year.

Strategic location: Pho Minh Pagoda in Nam Dinh City was built in 1262 under the reign of Tran Thanh Tong (1240-1290). (Photo: VNS)

Participants at a conference last week to discuss the 750th anniversary (1262-2012) celebrations of Thien Truong-Nam Dinh urged locals to restore historic sites and prepare a data base, information centre in preparation for the influx of national and international visitors.

They will be drawn to the ceremony and a week of sports competitions, the publication of a book and a disc on the province and an exhibition of handicrafts, plus the oportunity to see the historical artifacts of the era.

Thien Truong-Nam Dinh, recognised as the second capital city of the period, was not only the hometown of the dynasty but also the political, cultural and educational centre of the nation and of important strategic importance in repelling the northern invaders in 1258, 1285 and 1288.

Viet Nam Archaeology Institute head Tong Trung Tin at the conference called for more research on relic sites, such as the Tran Temple and the De Tu and Pho Minh pagodas, and a long-term project to protect their values.

He also recommended the province prepare document

s to have cultural features under the Tran dynasty recognised as national heritage.

According to a draft presented at the conference by the Nam Dinh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the opening ceremony would deliver a "strong and emotional message".

Under the direction of Nguyen Khac Phuc, the ceremony would include a 75-drum performance and a 2,250-strong choir.

The 120-minute opening programme is expected to be held in Thien Truong Stadium and to be broadcast on Viet Nam Television's Channel 1.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News