The history of Ninh Binh goes all the way back to the 10th century. The province was once the capital of Vietnam under the dynasties of Dinh (968–980) and Early Le (980–1009). A historical move in 1010 transformed Ninh Binh into the ancient capital, while still preserving many of Vietnam’s cultural values.
The following is a summary of Ninh Binh history, from the first capital of Vietnam to becoming a famous attraction today.
Ninh Binh as the Capital: Dinh & Le Dynasty Era
Ninh Binh was the capital of Vietnam at the end of the 10th century and the early years of the 11th century during the Dinh and Early Le dynasties.
It started in 968 when Dinh Bo Linh, a Ninh Binh born, united the country by defeating 12 warlords across the country and founded the Dinh dynasty. Dinh then chose his hometown Hoa Lu—Ninh Binh nowadays—as the capital of Vietnam (it was named Dai Co Viet back then.).
The Dinh regime, however, didn’t last long. Only after 12 years on his crown, Dinh Bo Linh was assassinated by his courtier – Do Thich. After Dinh’s sudden death, Le Hoan took the lead and founded the Early Le dynasty in 981. Hoa Lu continued to serve as the country’s capital until 1009.
Became the Ancient Capital
Ly Cong Uan took over the country from the Le’s in 1009. A year later, he made a decision that will change Hoa Lu forever.
Realizing that it’s necessary to place the capital in a more central location, in 1010, Ly Cong Uan decided to move Vietnam’s capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long (Hanoi nowadays). Since then, Hoa Lu-Ninh Binh officially became the ancient capital of Vietnam.
During the move, Ly is believed to dismantle and transfer the majority of Hoa Lu Citadel to build the new citadel. Despite that, Ninh Binh still holds many important relics, like Bich Dong or Bai Dinh Pagoda. In the 17th century, the Ly dynasty built 2 temples worshiping King Dinh & Le as a way to show tribute to the founder of the nations. These temples are still standing strong today.
After the Vietnam Revolution
Like all other areas of the country, Ninh Binh went through a down note during the long Vietnam War. But right after the Vietnam Revolution, the province underwent significant changes. Ninh Binh was officially named in 1968 as part of administrative reforms after the war ended.
The province quickly gained attention thanks to its long-rich history and beautiful nature. In 1986, Cuc Phuong National Park of Ninh Binh was designated as Vietnam’s First National Park, featuring a diverse ecosystem, marking the first impression of the province to tourists all over the world.
However, Ninh Binh tourism just significantly boomed in 2014, when Trang An Scenic Complex was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO thanks to its stunning limestone mountain ranges, caves, and a rich cultural complex.
Nowadays, Ninh Binh attracts 6.8 million tourists yearly, with 6 million domestic travelers and nearly 1 million foreign travelers.
