An exhibition on names and capitals of Vietnam through the feudal age until 1945 as carved on printing wood blocks of the Nguyen dynasty opened in Hanoi on February 25.

Scene at the exhibition (Photo: dangcongsan.vn)

On display at the Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam (Temple of Literature – The First University of Vietnam) are 30 images and documents as well as 20 versions of wood blocks made under the last feudal dynasty in Vietnam (1802-1945). 

Lasting for a moth, the exhibition sheds light on the origin and meaning of each name and capital, which helps visitors gain knowledge on the history of Vietnam’s national building and defence in the past.

The wood blocks, recognised as World Documentary Heritage by UNESCO, represent an important part of the country’s feudal history. Under the Nguyen Dynasty, they were used to print information about social standards, articles on the lives and careers of the aristocracy, and historical events. They are original records from the time, making them very valuable.-VNA