An overview of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel's central sector. — VNS Photo Tran Quang Tuan

HA NOI — The Ha Noi People's Committee yesterday unveiled a master plan on preserving the site of the ancient Thang Long Imperial Citadel and developing part of the area into a culture and history park.

The Imperial Citadel zone, located in the city's Ba Dinh District, includes an archaeological site at 18 Hoang Dieu Street, and a wider area that was once part of the citadel's grounds.

The plan aims to preserve the archaeological site and develop part of the citadel area into a park that will showcase the value of the relics and the site's 1,000-year-old history.

The citadel's central sector was recognised by UNESCO as an example of World Cultural Heritage in 2010. The ancient site is also located in modern-day Ha Noi's political centre, and is situated next the site of the new National Assembly House, which is still under construction.

According to the master plan, the citadel zone will cover a total area of 45,380sq.m, including 13,670sq.m and 3,440sq.m showrooms used to display archaeological finds and a miniature replica of the ancient citadel. Up to 21,200sq.m will be reserved for parks and green space, while research and excavation will continue on the 6,800sq.m archaeological site.

"The site plays a key role in preserving the glorious values of our nation," said the Ha Noi People's Committee vice chairwoman Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc at a ceremony to publicise the master plan.

"Thus, it is the responsibility of Hanoians as well as the people across the nation to help preserve the site."

Ngoc said the key tasks in the coming time were to select the best architectural plan for the zone, complete regulations as well as specific plans for investment, management, and preservation by the end of the year, and continue archaeological research at the site while ensuring it is open to visitors.

The plan also aims to ensure preservation of artefacts and relics found at the site while also respecting the area's intangible cultural values. This work will include maintaining architectural harmony with existing structures and Ba Dinh Square.

The plan will also see part of the archaeological digs at the site turned into showrooms that will house relics in an environment that will ensure the best humidity and temperature for preservation. It is noted that the maximum height of newly built structures at the 18 Hoang Dieu Street site will not exceed 5m, and buildings in general will be limited.

There will be four entrances to the site from Hoang Dieu, Doc Lap, Hoang Van Thu and Bac Son streets, with the main entrance at the corner of Hoang Dieu and Bac Son streets. There will be two main walkways and paths connecting sightseeing areas.

A tunnel will be built across Hoang Dieu Street to connect the archaeological site with the old citadel area. These constructions will help ensure comprehensive and smooth tours for visitors and create a link between the 18 Hoang Dieu Street site with the National Assembly House and the citadel.

"We will have lots of work to do in order to complete the project by the time construction of the National Assembly House is set to be completed in late 2013. Thus, we need to do all-out in our efforts," said deputy minister of construction Nguyen Dinh Toan. — VNS