Central Quang Ngai province’s general museum received a plastic version of an old woodblock on Vietnam’s sovereignty over Ly Son island and Hoang Sa (Paracel) archipelago on December 29.

The woodblock, dated back from the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), described in details the geographic locations of both islands. (Source: danviet.vn)

The printing board, dated back from the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), described in details the geographic locations of both islands.

It stated that Ly Son Island is situated to the east of the river mouth of Ly Son district, also called Cu Lao Re, with the ground being low in the centre and higher in the vicinity. The area has ten hectares of land that belonged to Vinh An and An Hai wards.

Hoang Sa was said to be located to the east of Ly Son island and comprise more than 130 small islands. On the islands, thousands of miles of yellow sands can be seen, and there are fresh water wells, streams and flocks of seabirds.

The woodblock provided evidence of Vietnam’s early governance over Hoang Sa archipelago. It was part of the collection of Nguyen Dynasty woodblocks that has been recognised as part of the world documentary heritage.

The plastic version was presented to the local museum by the National Archive Centre No.4 to help promote the knowledge among the public.

On the occasion, the museum has opened an exhibition displaying nearly 500 ancient Vietnamese artefacts, which lasts until January 10.

VNA